Components of all courses are roughly categorized into three strands: theory, incorporating the understanding of the materials of music; creation, the planning, rehearsal, and performance of music; and analysis, the study of musical works and their characteristics. 

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

Outline
Available in all grades, the instrumental music courses aim to develop students' understanding and appreciation of music through creative, practical, and theoretical work. Students will also develop critical thinking, problem solving, and collaboration skills as corollaries to their studies in music which will benefit work in other disciplines. Students usually specialize in one instrument, learning relevant technique and repertoire. 

At Woburn,
... students enrolled in the Instrumental Music courses are members of a co-curricular ensemble (gr. 9, Concert Band/Concert Winds; gr. 10-12, Wind Ensemble). 
... classes rehearse repertoire that is often on the syllabus for regional and national competitions, and later perform at those competitions.
... many senior students undertake solo work or perform chamber music as part of an independent study unit. 
 

VOCAL MUSIC

Outline

Available in all grades, the vocal music courses aim to develop students' understanding and appreciation of music through creative, practical, and theoretical work. Students will also develop critical thinking, problem solving, and collaboration skills as corollaries to their studies in music which will benefit work in other disciplines. The vocal classes serve as the core group of singers for the Woburn Concert Choir. 

At Woburn... 
... students enrolled in the Vocal Music courses are members of the Concert Choir, a co-curricular ensemble. 
... our vocalists have been invited to many clinics and performances, including an Amadeus Choir workshop (2006); the International Bach Festival (2004-5); and a University of Toronto performance of Carmina Burana (2002).
... students in the vocal classes form lasting friendships; the working and rehearsal environment is very friendly. 
... students may audition for the elite Madrigal Choir, a chamber group performing challenging works. There is also a talented Chamber Choir. 
 

JAZZ 

Outline
This course is offered to talented students who play saxophone, trumpet, trombone, guitar, keyboard, bass, or percussion. The emphasis is on performance with specific attention to jazz improvisation and stage band styling and techniques. Listening and theory focuses on understanding, chord progression, and exposing students to jazz artists. Entry to the course is by audition.

At Woburn... 
... students enrolled in the Jazz course are members of the Senior Jazz Band, which rehearses outside regular school hours. 
... our jazz musicians often play invited gigs at local functions
... students have competed in regional and national competitions, and have been invited guests at events in Toronto. In 2001, members of the Jazz Band had an audience with the Prime Minister of Canada. 
 

GUITAR

Outline 
These are introductory courses that teach the playing of guitars and the reading of music written for the guitar. The history of music up to the present day, including popular music, is also studied through performance, listening, and visual media.