Music
Music
Throughout history, music has stood as a bit of an intangible mystery among the arts, yet its influence on cultural identities remains palpable.
Through courses offered by the Music Department, students move toward a profound comprehension of music, delving into its intricate language. This exploration enables them to discern its emotional resonance with greater acuity. Beyond mere interpretation, students gain insight into the dynamic nature of music as a creative medium for composers, performers and listeners alike, while also uncovering the theoretical frameworks and aesthetic principles that underpin its essence.
Music curriculum
| digital media production |
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In our state-of-the-art digital music lab and recording studio, (photos needed), students will explore the elements of music while developing active listening skills. These concepts then open the doors to our student's musical creativity. Students work to create original music on the industry-standard software (Logic Pro) on industry-standard equipment in our Mac lab. In addition to music production, students will also explore audio engineering through recording live music in our studio, and through running the many music events hosted on our campus. In our final term, students explore job opportunities in the field and blend mixed media through video production software (Final Cut Pro). This class aims to spark multifaceted creativity in a modern working environment through a hands-on approach. This course fulfills an Arts credit |
| music theory ap |
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The purpose of this course is to provide a broad and intensive curriculum that will delve deeply into the inner workings of music. Aspects of music theory including pitch, rhythm, tonality, melody, harmony, counterpoint, and form will be analyzed in detail. In addition to developing analytical skills necessary for understanding complex musical structures, this course will assist the student in developing ear-training skills that will allow them to both recognize common tonal patterns as well as reproduce these patterns with his/her voice. This course prepares students for the AP Exam in Music Theory. This course fulfills an Arts credit |
| fundamentals of digital media production |
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| This course serves as an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in both practical and theoretical elements of music. An introduction to the fundamentals of music theory will set the stage for a broad exploration of several practical music applications including composition, improvisation, performance, and analysis. Each student will be expected to choose a primary instrument with which to participate in the practical music applications during class. For those students with no instrumental experience or those focused on singing, the student may use his/her voice as an instrument. A student can also, with the teacher's guidance, learn a new instrument as part of the course. Throughout the course, the students will be exposed to diverse styles of music ranging from ancient Greek theatrical music to Beethoven’s symphonies to Radiohead. |
| schola |
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| Schola is both a course and a vocal ensemble. It supports the spiritual life of the community by providing music for School liturgy. It also fulfills the Theology requirement for Form VI. As a course, Schola has a series of required learning objectives and its work is graded. The principal work of Schola is to learn and prepare music and to sing that music at School (liturgical) events. To best understand that role, Schola also includes a theological, reflection strand. This component provides context for the music of Schola, exploring the structure and meaning of the Mass, the liturgical calendar, and related topics in theology and spirituality. Schola is collaborative, musical, spiritual, reflective, creative, and enjoyable. Students entering their VI form may audition for Schola at the end of their Form V school year. |
Performing Ensembles and Opportunities
| Orchestra | Band |
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| Our music program offers students the chance to engage in one-on-one private lessons with experienced teachers as well as the opportunity to partake in one of our many ensembles: Sinfonia, our talented orchestra; or our Chamber Ensemble, which focuses on smaller, classical works. Additional musical opportunities include participation in rock bands and jazz combos. |
| sinfonia |
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| Sinfonia is the Abbey's largest instrumental ensemble. This ensemble incorporates band and orchestral instruments and performs masterworks and contemporary music. We perform at the end of each term in a concert with Abbey Singers. Sinfonia is led by Mr. Bentley and meets on the auditorium stage during Music Block. |
| modern band |
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| Modern Band is a new approach to ensemble music. In small groups, students will learn the skills necessary to play in a rock/pop band. This ensemble explores song forms, chord structures, soloing and improvising, and stage presence. Modern Band is open to any student who sings or plays an instrument. The group is especially seeking drummers, bassists, guitarists, keyboardists, and singers and will perform music from a variety of styles including pop, Broadway, R&B, and rock radio. |
| chamber music |
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| Chamber Music is an afternoon activity that meets during the fall and spring terms. If you are a serious musician looking for lots of practice time, individual coaching, and a chance to improve your musicianship, Chamber Music is the place for you! Students will develop their technique while learning challenging music in small groups. Chamber Musicians will perform in various recitals throughout the year and often prepare music for honors festivals, competitions, and collegiate auditions. |
| private lessons |
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| The Abbey works in partnership with local professionals to give world-class private lessons to our students. Private lessons are offered during free time in the music wing with teachers available to instruct in the areas of woodwinds, low brass, percussion, piano, strings, guitar, and vocals. |
vocal
In addition to participation in the winter musical, vocal students can participate in several groups offering a range of musical styles.
| abbey road |
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| Just like its name, this a cappella group draws from multiple references to create pieces that entertain and inspire the audiences they perform in front of. |
| abbey singers |
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| Abbey Singers is our school's co-ed concert choir. Anyone who loves to sing or wants to learn more about their voice is welcome. Students learn a variety of music ranging from new acapella arrangements to stunning holiday carols. With performances at the end of each term in a concert with Sinfonia. Abbey Singers meets in the music wing during Music Block. |
| Academics |
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| Fuel innovation and excellence in teaching and learning by supporting curriculum development, classroom resources and academic programming. |
| enharmonix |
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| With the home of the legendary Newport Jazz Festival just down the road, singers cannot help but want to harmonize with the smooth tones of our jazz ensemble. This is one of those experiences that is just too cool not to try. |
| modern band |
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| Modern Band is a new approach to ensemble music. In small groups, students will learn the skills necessary to play in a rock/pop band. This ensemble explores song forms, chord structures, soloing and improvising, and stage presence. Modern Band is open to any student who sings or plays an instrument. The group is especially seeking drummers, bassists, guitarists, keyboardists, and singers and will perform music from a variety of styles including pop, Broadway, R&B, and rock radio. |
| schola |
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| Schola is both a course and a vocal ensemble. It supports the spiritual life of the community by providing music for School liturgy. It also fulfills the Theology requirement for Form VI. As a course, Schola has a series of required learning objectives and its work is graded. The principal work of Schola is to learn and prepare music and to sing that music at School (liturgical) events. To best understand that role, Schola also includes a theological, reflection strand. This component provides context for the music of Schola, exploring the structure and meaning of the Mass, the liturgical calendar, and related topics in theology and spirituality. Schola is collaborative, musical, spiritual, reflective, creative, and enjoyable. Students entering their VI form may audition for Schola at the end of their Form V school year. |
Festivals, Competition and Travel
There are many travel opportunities tailored for performing arts students. Embarking on these journeys fosters a meaningful engagement with other artists and the cultures that have cultivated some of the world's most influential art.
Recent excursions have included captivating performances at esteemed venues such as the Trinity Repertory Theater and the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra. Many of our students also audition and participate in the Rhode Island Music Education Association (RIMEA) annual All-State Festival for orchestra, concert band and chorus.
Carnegie Hall
A particularly noteworthy highlight is the performance by our music students at the illustrious Carnegie Hall in April of 2024. Under the direction of Michael Carnaroli, music director, the Abbey Singers were invited to perform in the National Concert Chorus “Walk in the Light” by National Concerts, a company that arranges groups from schools across the country to sing in performances with well-known conductors and composers. The Abbey Singers also performed alongside Christian recording artist Ryan Tremblay in a special concert on campus earlier in the year.
In line with our commitment to providing enriching experiences, the horizon holds plans for an unforgettable musical voyage to Italy during the spring break of 2025.
winter musical
The annual winter musical is a highly anticipated, all-campus event that showcases our performing students’ artistic excellence as they take center stage. From the timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, our Winter Musicals are fun-filled experiences characterized by artistic sophistication and professional stagecraft.
As we bring cherished stories to life through spirited song, dance and acting, we invite parents, as well as the broader Portsmouth and Aquidneck Island communities, to join us for limited runs of these culturally enriching musicals. Embrace the elegance and grace of the performing arts as we join our community in celebration of artistic aspiration and achievement, as well as the enduring beauty and power of the stage.
Past Productions
2024 Curtains
2023 Matilda The Musical
2022 Mamma Mia
2021 Monty Python’s Spamalot
2020 Bye Bye Birdie
2019 Freaky Friday
2018 The Little Mermaid
2017 Legally Blonde
2016 The Addams Family
2015 Ghost
2014 Into the Woods