4312, Elective Music Credit

Students attending grades 9 – 12 who study music in private lessons and who meet carefully spelled-out regulations, and having studied at least one year before becoming eligible to apply for credit, shall be given elective credit at the rate of one-half credit per year.

SCHOOL CREDIT FOR PRIVATE MUSIC INSTRUCTION
(The New York State Applied Music Plan)

Objectives of Applied Music Study:

1. To improve solo performance
2. To become a more valuable member of the school performing groups
3. To use music for the enjoyment of leisure time
4. To develop special musical talents
5. To build a better foundation for a career in music

Regulations Governing Credit: (1/2 unit credit per year)

1. Before being admitted for credit, the pupil must have completed at least one year’s study in the branch of applied music in which he desire credit.
2. Students must be members of the Shaker High School Band, Choir or Orchestra or subdivision of one of these during the year for which they desire credit. Special permission could be given to examine other students with the permission of the Department Supervisor.
3. Private music teachers, including members of the North Colonie Music Department, must apply to the school in order to have their students considered for examination. This application (Form A) should include the background, experience and professional credentials of the teacher. The approval of the applied music instruction and the selection of the examiner is the responsibility of the school authorities.
4. Application for credit must be made on a form povided by the school.This form should be filled out during the semester preceeding the school year in which credit is requested and retained in the official files of the school.
5. The pupil must take at least one music lesson a week, not less than 30 minutes in length, for a minimum of 36 weeks during the school year.
6. The pupil must practice a minimum of five hours a week, keeping a record of such practice on a form provided by the school.
7. Materials, including methods books and solos, should be of appro- priate difficulty and of acceptable musical merit. They should indicate work beyond that which the student would receive in the regular school music program.4312
8. At the close of each grading period, the applied music teacher will give the high school principal the pupil’s grade on a report form.
9. The pupil must pass an examination before credit may be allowed. The examiner must report the results of the examination to the high school principal on a form provided. The principal will make the proper record on the pupil’s report card.
10. Forms C and D (final reports) should be kept in the school files for at least one year following the completion of the year’s study.

Required of the Shaker High School Music Department:

1. Keep accurate records of all auditions and tests given in conjunction with this program.
2. See that both parents and teachers are aware of and understand the regulations governing the program.
3. Receive and file –
   a. teachers’ applications
   b. students’ applications
   c. practice records
   d. teachers’ quarterly reports
   e. examiners’ reports

Policy Adopted: January 8, 1968
Amended: June 21, 1999