Music

Rowland Hall is known for having one of the best instrumental jazz performance programs among Utah high schools. Starting in the Lower School, students can sign up for beginning band, and very often stay involved through twelfth grade, honing their talents under the direction of professional musician-teacher Dr. Bret Jackson.

Middle and upper school jazz musicians regularly perform at school concerts and functions. Dr. Jackson helps his students, no matter their level of technique or years of experience, develop a better understanding of jazz through both performance and study of styles and musicians. Band members improve their skills in improvisation, reading and interpreting music notation, and articulation of musical notes and phrases.

The Lower School offers an orchestra class for students of any level to learn fundamental string technique in a supportive environment.

Both lower and middle school orchestras perform a variety of classical and popular repertoire at concerts throughout the year. The Middle School also offers an advanced orchestra elective open by audition to advanced string players, pianists, and other classically trained musicians.

In the Upper School’s orchestra class, students further their musicianship in preparation for performance beyond high school. Students may compete at regional and state festivals and perform at school concerts and off-campus venues.

Upper schoolers experienced in reading notated music may take the Advanced Topics Music Theory course, which prepares students for advanced music theory courses in college. The class culminates in a recital showcasing students' compositions.

The Upper School also offers the Advanced Chamber Ensemble, or ACE, for top student-musicians to play college-level repertoire. Listen to a 2018 recording below.

In the Lower School, the optional after-school Chorus allows motivated third through fifth graders to perform a more advanced repertoire.

Middle and upper schoolers study music of different periods, styles, and difficulty levels. Skills such as singing with pitch accuracy, proper vocal tone, correct breathing and posture, balance and blend, diction, and proper rehearsal/performance etiquette are vital to the program.

In Middle School, a choir elective focuses on developing good vocal and ensemble technique. Students learn and perform songs from a variety of styles and cultures, including current music.

The Upper School choir's repertoire ranges from classical to a cappella, ancient to modern, and simple to complex. Singers strive for accuracy, expression, and style. Performances include school concerts, chapel services, region festivals and competitions, and community events.