Subject: Elective, Fine Art

Music Appreciation

Credits: 1.0

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Course Description

The purpose of this Music Appreciation course is to deepen the student’s awareness and understanding of the different ways the human experience is reflected in the musical arts and will emphasize the development of skills necessary to appreciate western music in a meaningful way. This course introduces basic musical terminology and notation, identifies many different musical instruments, and highlights the different periods of musical development from The Middle Ages, to the Classical Era.

Textbook: Music Appreciation (Boundless CC 4.0)

Course Objectives

Learn basic musical terminology and notation

Learn standard formal designs used within western musical repertoire

Explore stylistic elements that characterize historical periods and their composers

Analyze relationships between music and society

Develop effective listening techniques

Consider prominent composers and selected musical masterpieces

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Course Contents

Module TitleModule Topic(s)
Melody, Harmony, & Scales
Rhythm & Meter
Textures & Forms
Tempo & Dynamics
Classification of Human Voices
Musical Instrument Families
Musical Ensembles
The Middle Ages
The Renaissance
The Baroque Era
Baroque Opera
Baroque Instrumental
The Classical Era
Classical Opera/Choral Music
Classical Instrumentation

Recommended Prerequisites

Carnegie Credits Explained: Our Approach vs. Trimester Credits

Carnegie Credit System
Excel High School follows the Carnegie Credit system, a widely recognized method of measuring student progress based on instructional hours. A single Carnegie credit reflects approximately 120 hours of coursework, typically completed over a full academic year.

Carnegie Credit vs. Trimester Credit
While Carnegie credits are awarded based on total hours over a year, trimester credits divide the school year into three terms. In a trimester system, students complete courses in shorter, intensive sessions, often earning partial credits (e.g., 0.33 or 0.5 per term). In contrast, Excel’s use of Carnegie credits ensures students have ample time to engage deeply with the material and develop a well-rounded understanding at a consistent pace.

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At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.