Philosophy, Curricular and Extracurricular Offerings Home Campus Life Music Program Philosophy, Curricular and Extracurricular Offerings

 “The language of music is common to all generations and nations; it is understood by everybody, since it is understood with the heart.” – Gioacchino Rossini  (Source: Zanolini, Biografia di Gioacchino Rossini, 1875, A Dictionary of Musical Quotations. Ian Crofton, Donald Fraser, 1985)

Ample research has proven the benefits of music education, particularly through ensemble-based experiences. At Cathedral Catholic we believe that students’ participation in music directly supports the development of the school’s four core values: character, faith, knowledge and responsibility. Our faculty and staff are especially proud of the community that students find within our program, the teamwork that they exercise through participation, and the cognitive advantages gained that will impact their future successes. Furthermore, music is directly tied to the history of the Church and the celebration of the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Novice Band- This course is for students who are new to playing wind and brass instruments. Students learn fundamentals of rhythm and note reading. Novice Band students participate in the Fall Drumline as well as the Christmas and Spring Concerts. Students who stay involved in band for 3-4 years are eligible to receive honors credit.

Wind Ensemble (Advanced Band)- The CCHS Wind Ensemble is for band students (wind, brass and percussion) who have achieved proficiency on their instrument. This ensemble participates in Drumline and Pep Band events as well as festival and concert performances throughout the year. Recommended experience is 3 years on a wind, brass or percussion instrument. Students who stay involved in band for 3-4 years are eligible to receive honors credit.

String Orchestra- This class is for students who are interested in playing violin, viola, cello or double-bass in a string and full orchestra setting. Beginners are welcome to enroll in this course and receive support from professional and peer coaches. Advanced musicians are awarded chamber music opportunities and may play more advanced repertoire. String Orchestra students participate in Fall Drumline events as well as festival and concert performances throughout the year. Students who stay involved in orchestra for 3-4 years are eligible to receive honors credit.

Chamber Choir - This class is for students who enjoy singing in an ensemble setting. Choir students prepare secular music for festival and concert performances throughout the year. The Chamber Choir also serves at All School Liturgies each month. Students who stay involved in choir for 3-4 years are eligible to receive honors credit.

AP Music Theory- This class is for students who have a proficient understanding of musical concepts and are looking to expand on and apply their understanding. Extensive experience (5+ years) on a harmonic instrument, such as piano, harp or guitar is recommended. Students explore western tonal and rhythm systems through written and aural analysis. Students practice these skills through composition.

Music Composition and Technology- This class is for students who are interested in digital music production. Using GarageBand, Logic, ProTools and AbletonLive, students will create projects that help them to develop their compositional palette and to understand recording and post-production processes.

Tri-M- Tri-M is a national music honor society. Students who participate in our Cathedral Chapter serve with their musical gifts on-campus and in the greater San Diego community. Students also facilitate projects and initiatives to improve our Cathedral Catholic Music Program. Students must be enrolled in a music class to be eligible for induction to the Tri-M Music Honor society. Induction is based on a point (service) system.

Jazz and Rock Ensembles- These ensembles are student-directed. Any Cathedral Catholic High School student is eligible to audition. Auditions occur in the Fall for the year. Eligible instruments: vocals, guitar, bass guitar, keys, drums.

Liturgical Music- All-School Liturgies occur 1-2 times per month. Students in the Chamber Choir help to anchor the music for these events. Additional students may be considered to join the choir for All-School Liturgies at the Director’s discretion. 

School Musicals (Pit ensemble/cast)- The Cathedral Catholic High School Drama Program produces two musicals each year, during the second semester (winter and spring). In collaboration, CCHS instrumentalists are eligible to contribute their gifts by playing in the pit orchestra ensemble. The repertoire is rigorous. Professional instrumentalists are also hired to help mentor and support where needed. Many Cathedral instrumentalists cite this experience as being one of their favorites while in the CCHS Music Program.

Drumline- The CCHS Drumline is comprised of students from the Novice Band, Wind Ensemble and String Orchestra classes. These students help to rally our Dons at sporting and pep events during the fall as well as an annual Catholic parade event with Our Lady of the Rosary in downtown San Diego.

Travel- Cathedral Catholic music students have performed at Knott’s Berry Farms, Disneyland, the University of San Diego, Balboa Park, the National Catholic Educators Association Conference and Ireland. Stay tuned for more opportunities.

Festivals- Chamber Choir students regularly attend the Point Loma Nazarene Choral Music Festival in the Fall. Cathedral Catholic High School also hosts a special festival event for K-8 Catholic school music ensembles during the winter each year.

Songwriting and Composition (Let My Gifts Change the World Project)- Each year, all students have the opportunity to submit original work for a songwriting/composition contest. Winners have the opportunity to have their music professionally recorded and contributed to the “Let My Gifts Change the World” album project.