Performing Arts Acting Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
.5 credit
Note: Acting meets during the scheduled blocks, and therefore must be one of the six block selections. In this one-semester course, students explore the critical and creative process of acting through monologue and scene study. Additional exercises in improvisation, vocal and physical exercises, ensemble building, concentration, and emotional honesty aid students in developing their craft. Students should be prepared to question, investigate, and explore not only the world of the play, but their own life experiences. Students perform both in the classroom and in more public forums. Band Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Yearlong
1 credit
Note: Band meets during the scheduled blocks, and therefore must be one of the six block selections. This class covers a general historic timeline for various genres of music including contemporary and classical repertoire. Students perform representative pieces of music from these and other genres. Students work to extend their technical and musical abilities through individual and group instruction. Study of the basic elements of music theory and general musicianship serves as the focus of this class through instrumental performance. This course is intended for students with some experience on their instrument. Students interested in learning a new instrument should contact our performing arts department for guidance. Note: Students must provide their chosen instrument.
Chorus Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Yearlong
.5 credit
Note: Chorus meets three times each week during the Ensembles block. In Chorus, students discover and experience the joy of singing in an ensemble. This course helps to develop young student voices and knowledge of choral music by teaching the basics of vocal pedagogy: breathing, placement, and diction. Rhythmic and ear training are fundamental. Students also study the basic elements of music theory including tempo, chord progression, and other musical concepts. Students perform a diverse choral repertoire with ample opportunity for group performance and individual vocal growth for beginners and singers who have had previous experience in a choir. Fall Play and Spring Musical Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
.5 credit for each production
Note: Rehearsals take place during the morning enrichment block. Additional required rehearsals are scheduled outside of the school day. Students who participate in the fall play or spring musical receive a .5 performing arts credit. Music Foundations and Explorations Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
.5 credit
Note: Music Foundations and Explorations meets during the scheduled blocks, and therefore must be one of the six block selections. This class explores the exciting and diverse world of music as a reflection of various cultures, traditions, and national identity. This course covers basic musicianship, music theory, and music history with a focus on rhythm through drumming for the first of the class and tonality through keyboard instruments in the second half of the class. While this class is primarily nonperformance based, students will have the experience to write and perform a song either live or through a digital platform such as Garage Band.
35- Updated 3/2/22
