Students will be introduced to the basic principles and elements of design through various drawing and painting techniques. This class will provide students with an opportunity to explore a variety of materials: graphite, colored pencil, pen and ink, acrylic paint and watercolor. 

Students will increase their skills and develop their range of visual expression through an in-depth exploration of drawing and painting. Graphite, charcoal, pastels, pen and ink, printmaking, and experimental paint techniques will be investigated. The completion of Introduction to 2-Dimensional Art is a prerequisite for this course. Students can schedule an advanced level course as a year-long class by selecting the course two times in the scheduling portal. 

 

Students will be introduced to fundamental clay construction techniques used to create functional and sculptural works of art. Techniques used for making bowls, cups, vases, and plates, as well as sculptural construction will be introduced. The concept of practice is essential to working with clay and will be emphasized. Studio clay maintenance is an integral part of the course. Basic glazing techniques will be learned to finish pieces. 

Students will build upon skills attained in the Introduction to 3-Dimensional course by learning how to utilize the pottery wheel, increasing technical skills, and creating more intricate forms: teapots, sectional vases, and sets. Higher level decoration and experimental glaze applications will be covered. The concept of studio practice and artistic risk taking will be emphasized. Studio maintenance and building personal studio habits are integral to the course. The completion of Introduction to 3-Dimensional Art is necessary to schedule this course. Students can schedule an advanced level course as a year-long class by selecting the course two times in the scheduling portal. 

 

Grades 12

1.00 Credit

Level 1

Course # 2441

This final year long art course will be the culmination of taking several semester courses. Student projects will be theme/topic/artist driven, allowing the students to investigate the materials and techniques, expressing their ideas through chosen media. Emphasis will be placed on developing a personal voice artistically through projects, writing, and critiques. A study of historical and contemporary artists will parallel projects. Senior students must have completed a minimum of two level 1 art classes and two level 2 art classes to schedule this class.

Students in Intro to Musical Theater will form an understanding and an appreciation of musical theater as an artform, and will develop skills in acting, improvisation, voice, movement, audition technique, stagecraft, and performance. Students will also gain a deeper knowledge of theater’s history and its place in America’s cultural landscape.  The course is open to any student wishing to improve in these areas or with an interest in performing.  Though not a course requirement, students are strongly encouraged to take part in the fall play and spring musical, either as a member of cast or crew.  Additional performance opportunities may include a fall cabaret, a holiday recital, or other showcase-type events. 

Musical Theater Repertoire is designed for the highly motivated student interested in further developing their performance skills.  Particular focus is placed on choosing and perfecting solo repertoire, including songs, monologues and scenes. Though not a course requirement, students are strongly encouraged to take part in the spring musical, either as a member of cast or crew.  A spring showcase performance will take place at the end of the year, highlighting examples of the students’ work throughout the course.

Grades 9-12

1.00 Credits

Level 1

Course # 2110

Class meets five times per week. Students will be taught proper instrumental and ensemble techniques. Emphasis is placed on the development of musicianship through progressive technical studies, the development of tone quality, phrasing, articulation, all major and minor scales, rhythmic patterns, meters, trills, and embellishments, and music reading skills. Emphasis is on age-appropriate musicianship/aesthetic response including rehearsal and concert etiquette, and responsibilities associated with membership in a performing organization. The repertoire for marching band and concert band will consist of traditional and contemporary literature, including transcriptions, marches, and show music. The students will rehearse a large variety of music and prepare selected pieces for performance, adjudication, and competition. 

EXPECTATIONS: Extra rehearsals and performances are a vital and integral part of this course and are part of the course requirements and grading policy. 

Grades 9-12

1.00 Credit

Level 1

Course # 2120

Strings class meets every school day in the Band Room.  Students will continue developing advanced instrumental technique, improved musicianship and ensemble skills through the rehearsal and performance of a variety of string orchestra literature.  Attendance at all concerts is mandatory for this class.  In addition to our two major concerts, many other performance opportunities are available throughout the year.

Grades 9-12

1.00 Credit

Level 1

Course # 2130

Non-auditioned choral ensemble for students in grades 9-12. No experience is required, although the students should possess a love of singing and of music making. The choir will sing music written for soprano, alto, tenor and bass parts. Students are expected to participate in performances outside of school.

Grades 9-12

.50 Credits

Level 1

Course # 2140

This class will discuss the impact that rock and roll has had on the world.  During the course, students will learn about the evolution of the rock and roll sound, the influences of rock pioneers on today's musicians, as well as the lasting impact that rock and roll has made on society.  Daily activities will include listening to, and watching performances by various musicians, as well as learning the history behind some of the greatest musicians, bands, and songs of all time.  

Grades 9-12

.50 Credits

Level 1

Course # 2141

This elective course is designed for any student interested in learning how to play the acoustic guitar.  Beginners and experienced players are both welcome.  Class will be held every day throughout the semester.  Students will learn basic music-reading skills, fundamental guitar technique, chord progressions, and melodies.  A variety of musical genres will be explored. Solo performance as well as ensemble playing will be emphasized.

Grades 9-12

1.00 Credit

Level 1

Course # 2142

Students enrolled in this course will study basic theory, consisting of key signatures, major and minor scales, chords and chord progressions, ear training, sight singing, intervals plus chords and chord progressions.  This course consists of mostly music, listening, and writing skills leading to simple arrangements and compositions.  Homework and practice of skills will be expected.