High School Performing Arts

Introduction to Music

Introduction to Music, 1/2 credit. Semester elective. Non-exam course. Study of music theory and history from the Middle Ages through the Twentieth Century. The MIDI electronic music lab is used to reinforce classroom concepts and to encourage creative self-expression.

Introductory Theater

Introductory Theater, 1/2 credit. Semester elective. Non-exam course. Study of theater as a performing art with emphasis on interpretation and presentation, technical design, and historical background.

Performing Arts courses offer students the opportunity to master technical skills in music, public speaking, and theater. In addition, students develop abilities in the areas of critical thinking, discipline, self-confidence, and creativity.

Chorale

Chorale, 1 credit. Freshman, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors. Yearlong credit course in the study of vocal techniques, ensemble singing, music theory, and music history. This class will be split into two sections based on enrollment. No audition required.

Symphonic Band

Symphonic Band, 1 credit. Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors. Permission of the instructor required. Yearlong credit course in small ensemble and large band performance; study of theory, form, and music history. This class will be split into two sections based on enrollment.

Percussion Methods

Percussion Methods, 1 credit. Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors. Permission of the instructor required. Yearlong credit course in individual musical techniques and chamber music; study of theory, form, and music history; for students after their first year of percussion instrument study.

Chamber Orchestra

Chamber Orchestra, 1 credit. Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors. Permission of the instructor required. Yearlong credit course in orchestral performance and chamber music; study of theory, form, and music history.

Dance

Dance, 1/2 credit. Eighth graders, freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Semester elective. This course is an exploration of culture and history through the medium of a variety of dance genres and styles including hip hop, street dancing, break dancing, ballroom, ballet, jazz, tap, step and clogging, native dance from the countries of Southeast Asia, and dance from the Renaissance and Middle Ages. Daily work will involve improving strength, stamina and style using a variety of dance techniques, as well as, examining what dance reveals about a particular culture and its affect on the history of that culture. No previous dance experience is necessary, but all experienced dancers are welcome and will find the class equally as challenging as the newcomers.

Public Speaking

Public Speaking, 1/2 credit. Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors. Semester elective. Introduction to communication theory and skills including rhetoric, research, organization, and delivery. Variety of speeches studied and delivered.

Advanced Acting

Advanced Acting, 1/2 credit. Sophomores, juniors, seniors. Semester elective. Prerequisite: students must have completed the Arts requirement. The student will study character and script analysis, interpretation, vocal and physical development, and performance.

Play Analysis and Acting Styles

Play Analysis and Acting Styles, 1/2 credit. Juniors. Semester elective. Prerequisite: Advanced Acting or permission of the instructor. This course is designed to introduce the student to tools for and methods of analyzing scripts for the purpose of production and performance. The course focuses on the development of critical skills which can aid in future research and analysis of literature for the stage. The course will also introduce the student to different styles of acting. It will include the examination and performance of scenes from plays of various genres and historical periods.

Theater Production

Theater Production, 1/2 credit. Sophomores, juniors, seniors. Semester elective. Prerequisite: students must have completed the arts requirement. The student will study lighting, sound, makeup, scenic design, scene painting, directing, and general production.

Directing and Producing the Play

Directing and Producing the Play, 1/2 credit. Juniors, seniors. Semester elective. Prerequisite: Introduction to Theatre, Advanced Acting, Play Analysis and Acting Styles. Students will study the fundamentals of directing with the continuation of their acting studies. Production and design of the play will also be covered.

Advanced Placement Music Theory

Advanced Placement Music Theory, 1 credit. Juniors, seniors. Yearlong course. Permission of the instructor required. Traditional study of harmony; use of theory (18th, 19th centuries); ear training and composition.