High School Center Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Music

Music

Take your talent beyond the practice room and onto the big stage! Whether you dream of performing live, producing tracks, mastering music theory, or launching a career in the arts industry, this immersive pathway gives you the ultimate head start. You'll team up with industry professionals, gain hands-on experience through a real-world capstone project, and even earn business credentials in marketing or entrepreneurship.

Core Experiences

Secure the prestigious Maryland State Fine Arts Diploma Seal upon graduation
Sharpen your technical technique, musicianship, and hands-on music technology skills
Analyze world music history, critical theory, and performance aesthetics
Partner directly with local music industry leaders and community organizations

Program Goals

Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills in the Arts
Equip students with a strong academic foundation in the core concepts and practical techniques of music, while also becoming fluent in the technological tools used by modern music professionals.
Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience in the Arts
“Move beyond the classroom” by requiring students to apply their knowledge in an authentic context through a Capstone Project and cultivated experiences with industry professionals.
Foster College, Career, and/or Community Pathways in the Arts
Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and careers in the arts by offering certifications, dual enrollment opportunities, and engagement with industry professionals.

Application & Locations

Application: Criteria-based application. Students applying to the Music Center Program will be asked to submit a video recording of a performed piece and an artist statement in addition to sitting for a live listening exam. Applicants will receive more information about this once they submit an application.

Schools:

Southern Region: Einstein
Eastern Region: Blake
Central South Region: Woodward
Central Region: Richard Montgomery
Central North Region: Quince Orchard
Northern Region: Damascus

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Music Program. Cells in blue are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
Ensemble or General Music Course	Ensemble or General Music Course	Ensemble or General Music Course	Ensemble or General Music Course
Musicianship	Ensemble or General Music Course or World Language	AP Music Theory	Ensemble or General Music Course
World Language or Elective	World Language or Elective	Ensemble or General Music Course or Arts Entrepreneurship and Management or World Language	Ensemble or General Music Course or Arts Entrepreneurship and Management or World Language
English	English	English	English
Math	Math	Math	Math
Science	Science	Science	Elective
Social Studies	Social Studies	Social Studies	Elective

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, students must complete the following to remain enrolled in the Music Program and earn the related certificate:

Music Core (6 Credits)
- Musicianship
- AP Music Theory
- 4 credits ensemble or general music courses
Focus (4 credits, students opt for one of the following three options)
- Music - 4 credits in general music courses
- World Languages - 4 credits of world languages in grades 10-12 plus Seal of Biliteracy
- Fine Arts Business/Management - 4 credits of CTE pathway in business or management or business electives