Quarter II includes the following classes:

VOCAL STYLE PREP II (R&B): (3 Credits) The second course in the Style Prep sequence immerses you in R&B’s signature techniques: fluid melismas, gospel-inflected ad-libs, and the pocket-centric phrasing that makes every lyric feel personal. You’ll dissect classics like Brown Sugar by D’Angelo and It’s Not Right But It’s OK by Whitney Houston, as well as contemporary hits like Best Part by Daniel Caesar and H.E.R to master the controlled distortion and dynamic storytelling that captures R&B’s intimacy. By blending technical precision with emotional authenticity, you’ll develop a style that honors the genre’s roots while finding your unique place in its evolution.

VOCAL TECHNIQUE: UNLOCKING YOUR RANGE: (3 Credits) Your voice is capable of more than you realize. The second course in the Vocal Technique sequence focuses on safely expanding your range while developing seamless transitions between registers. You’ll learn to navigate your passaggio (bridge areas) with control, access your full dynamic spectrum from soft tones to powerful belts, and develop mix voice technique for balanced, strain-free singing.

REAL DEAL REHEARSAL II: (1 Credit) Students continue to work together in a rhythm section format, under the supervision of a faculty member, to rehearse in a series of practical real-life situations, the mastery of which is essential to every performing rhythm section musician.

PRODUCING IN THE DIGITAL AUDIO WORKSTATION I: (3 Credits) Producing in the Digital Audio Workstation is an introductory course designed to equip students with the fundamental skills and techniques needed for music production using either Ableton Live or Logic Pro. This course covers essential topics such as navigating the software interface, understanding basic audio and MIDI concepts, and utilizing both DAW’s powerful built-in instruments and effects. Students will learn to create, arrange, and mix their own tracks, exploring various genres and production styles. Through hands-on projects and practical exercises, this course aims to develop both technical proficiency and creative confidence, providing a solid foundation for both producers and musicians.

STUDIO RECORDING I: (2 Credits) Explore the fundamentals of multitrack recording techniques and technology in Studio Recording I. This course covers the principles of sound recording, microphone placement, signal flow, and mixing. Students will gain hands-on experience in creating, editing, and mixing multitrack recordings, preparing them for professional audio production environments.

ANCHOR TEACHER PRIVATE LESSONS: (2 Credits) Students are assigned a private instructor who acts as the student’s principal teacher and advisor regarding the tasks presented in the overall program. Students meet with this anchor teacher on a weekly basis and focus on both the reading and technical skills required by each foundational style.

KEYBOARD SKILLS II: (1 Credit) This class coordinates with Applied Theory II and continues the study of keyboard technique with an emphasis on mastering all the major scales and simple triadic chord progression skills.

APPLIED THEORY II: (2 Credits) Applied Theory II is a continuation of Applied Theory I, designed to deepen students’ understanding of music theory and its application in more complex musical contexts. Building on the foundational concepts covered in the first course, students will explore advanced topics such as chromaticism, modulation, extended chords, and form analysis. This course emphasizes analytical skills, creative applications, and enhanced musicianship through advanced ear training, sight-singing, and keyboard harmony.