High School - Fine Arts
Note: Most performing arts courses, (Theatre, Band, and Chorus) have mandatory performance requirements that include out-of-school hours and appropriate apparel. Students who have other commitments which would prohibit meeting these expectations should not enroll in these particular courses.
Theater Arts I: Introduction to Theatre (14100G)
This course is designed to provide students with a survey of theatre arts. Students are provided opportunities to experience and appreciate dramatic literature and participate in the creative processes of performance and production. The course emphasizes skill development and provides theatrical opportunities that enable students to determine areas of interest.
This course is designed to provide students with a survey of theatre arts. Students are provided opportunities to experience and appreciate dramatic literature and participate in the creative processes of performance and production. The course emphasizes skill development and provides theatrical opportunities that enable students to determine areas of interest.
Technical Theatre (14350G)
Prerequisite: Theater Arts I or Art I
This course focuses on the skills of technical production work for theatrical performances, including stage management, set construction, lighting and sound operation and design, backstage running crews, and house management. The students will be responsible for serving as the technical crew for productions of the theater arts classes; therefore, additional after-school rehearsals and performances are required of all students.
Prerequisite: Theater Arts I or Art I
This course focuses on the skills of technical production work for theatrical performances, including stage management, set construction, lighting and sound operation and design, backstage running crews, and house management. The students will be responsible for serving as the technical crew for productions of the theater arts classes; therefore, additional after-school rehearsals and performances are required of all students.
Theater Arts II: Dramatic Literature and Theatre History (14200G)
Prerequisite: Theater Arts I
This course is designed to help students integrate and build upon concepts and skills acquired in Theatre Arts I. Students will investigate dramatic literature, theatrical styles, and historical periods through various modes of expression and performance. Students will study and respond to a variety of theatre experiences that will refine communicative, collaborative, analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills. Students will expand artistic abilities and appreciation of theatrical arts.
Prerequisite: Theater Arts I
This course is designed to help students integrate and build upon concepts and skills acquired in Theatre Arts I. Students will investigate dramatic literature, theatrical styles, and historical periods through various modes of expression and performance. Students will study and respond to a variety of theatre experiences that will refine communicative, collaborative, analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills. Students will expand artistic abilities and appreciation of theatrical arts.
Theater Arts III: Intermediate Acting and Playwriting (14230G)
Prerequisite: Theater Arts II
This course is designed to help students integrate and build upon concepts and skills acquired in Theatre Arts II. Students will investigate acting styles and the process of playwriting, which includes character development, research, dramatic structure, conflict, and resolution. Students will study and respond to a variety of theatre experiences that will refine collaborative, analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills. Students will expand artistic abilities and appreciation of the theatrical arts.
Prerequisite: Theater Arts II
This course is designed to help students integrate and build upon concepts and skills acquired in Theatre Arts II. Students will investigate acting styles and the process of playwriting, which includes character development, research, dramatic structure, conflict, and resolution. Students will study and respond to a variety of theatre experiences that will refine collaborative, analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills. Students will expand artistic abilities and appreciation of the theatrical arts.
Theater Arts IV: Advanced Acting and Directing (14260G)
Prerequisite: Theater Arts III
This course is designed to help students refine the concepts and skills acquired in Theatre Arts III while reinforcing the principles learned in Theatre Arts I and II. Students will use research, performance, and evaluation to develop artistic criteria that will be applied to performance and directing. Students will study and respond to a variety of theatre experiences, showcasing collaborative, analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills.
Prerequisite: Theater Arts III
This course is designed to help students refine the concepts and skills acquired in Theatre Arts III while reinforcing the principles learned in Theatre Arts I and II. Students will use research, performance, and evaluation to develop artistic criteria that will be applied to performance and directing. Students will study and respond to a variety of theatre experiences, showcasing collaborative, analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills.
Musical Theater I (14261G)
Prerequisite: Theater I-IV; Technical Theater
This course will introduce students to the techniques used by actors/singers to play musical theater scenes believably, honestly, and dynamically. Basic acting techniques will be taught as well as work in singing, text analysis, movement, and speech. Students in this course will be required to direct, choreograph, and stage manage.
Prerequisite: Theater I-IV; Technical Theater
This course will introduce students to the techniques used by actors/singers to play musical theater scenes believably, honestly, and dynamically. Basic acting techniques will be taught as well as work in singing, text analysis, movement, and speech. Students in this course will be required to direct, choreograph, and stage manage.
Theatre Movement (93190G)
Prerequisite: Theater I or Tryout/Audition
This course is designed to help students integrate movement and dance in order to build upon concepts and skills acquired in Theatre Arts I to develop the student actor. Students will study ballet, modern and American jazz styles and incorporate them in theatrical presentations. Students will study and analyze the ways in which dance enhances theatrical presentation. Students will showcase collaborative efforts that help them to enhance characterization, conflict, and production style.
Prerequisite: Theater I or Tryout/Audition
This course is designed to help students integrate movement and dance in order to build upon concepts and skills acquired in Theatre Arts I to develop the student actor. Students will study ballet, modern and American jazz styles and incorporate them in theatrical presentations. Students will study and analyze the ways in which dance enhances theatrical presentation. Students will showcase collaborative efforts that help them to enhance characterization, conflict, and production style.
Art I (91200G)
In this course the students will study the elements of art and the principles of design. They will develop skills using a variety of media. The students will expand their imagination and work on observational drawing skills. Students will learn to analyze and critique artwork, in addition to exploring art history and aesthetics. Students will be required to maintain an art sketchbook.
In this course the students will study the elements of art and the principles of design. They will develop skills using a variety of media. The students will expand their imagination and work on observational drawing skills. Students will learn to analyze and critique artwork, in addition to exploring art history and aesthetics. Students will be required to maintain an art sketchbook.
Art II (91300G)
Prerequisite: Art I
This course will focus on two dimensional art. Prior knowledge of the elements of art and the principles of design is expected. The students will expand their technical drawing skills, while using a wide variety of two-dimensional media. There will be an emphasis on applying and developing compositional skills while creating and using a variety of styles and techniques. Students will expand their art vocabulary and writing skills to enhance their abilities to critique works of art. They will develop interpretive skills as they study art history and analyze historical artwork. The students will begin to create a body of artwork for a portfolio. The students in this class will be required to maintain an art sketchbook.
Prerequisite: Art I
This course will focus on two dimensional art. Prior knowledge of the elements of art and the principles of design is expected. The students will expand their technical drawing skills, while using a wide variety of two-dimensional media. There will be an emphasis on applying and developing compositional skills while creating and using a variety of styles and techniques. Students will expand their art vocabulary and writing skills to enhance their abilities to critique works of art. They will develop interpretive skills as they study art history and analyze historical artwork. The students will begin to create a body of artwork for a portfolio. The students in this class will be required to maintain an art sketchbook.
Art III (91400G)
Prerequisite: Art II
This course will focus on three-dimensional art. Prior knowledge of the elements of art and the principles of design is expected of the students. There will be an emphasis on applying the design principles to further develop compositional skills in creating three-dimensional artwork. The students will explore a variety of three-dimensional art media. They will further expand their vocabulary and writing skills through the exploration of art history and three-dimensional artists. They will create three-dimensional artwork suitable for a portfolio. This class will require maintaining an art sketchbook.
This course will focus on three-dimensional art. Prior knowledge of the elements of art and the principles of design is expected of the students. There will be an emphasis on applying the design principles to further develop compositional skills in creating three-dimensional artwork. The students will explore a variety of three-dimensional art media. They will further expand their vocabulary and writing skills through the exploration of art history and three-dimensional artists. They will create three-dimensional artwork suitable for a portfolio. This class will require maintaining an art sketchbook.
Art IV (91450G)
Prerequisite: Art III
In the course the students should be motivated to prepare a body of work for a college portfolio or to prepare for AP Studio Art. There should be a commitment to rigorous completion of quality artwork and to create artwork outside of the class. Students will determine and explore an area of concentration focusing on a personal visual interest or problem. The students will be expected to demonstrate a proficiency in formal, technical, and expressive means within the artwork. They will expand vocabulary and writing skills, while applying analytical skills. This class will require maintaining an art notebook. In addition, the students will create and maintain a body of work for a portfolio.
Prerequisite: Art III
In the course the students should be motivated to prepare a body of work for a college portfolio or to prepare for AP Studio Art. There should be a commitment to rigorous completion of quality artwork and to create artwork outside of the class. Students will determine and explore an area of concentration focusing on a personal visual interest or problem. The students will be expected to demonstrate a proficiency in formal, technical, and expressive means within the artwork. They will expand vocabulary and writing skills, while applying analytical skills. This class will require maintaining an art notebook. In addition, the students will create and maintain a body of work for a portfolio.
Art V (91470G)
Prerequisite: any three art classes
This course is designed as an independent study in which students continue to reinforce competence and confidence in their artwork. Students will be required to demonstrate mastery through a portfolio that shows concentration, breadth of experience, and technical skills. Students who enroll in Art V are generally planning to pursue visual arts as a major in college. This class will provide the students an opportunity to build a portfolio that includes some of the expectations of the college or university which they plan to attend.
Prerequisite: any three art classes
This course is designed as an independent study in which students continue to reinforce competence and confidence in their artwork. Students will be required to demonstrate mastery through a portfolio that shows concentration, breadth of experience, and technical skills. Students who enroll in Art V are generally planning to pursue visual arts as a major in college. This class will provide the students an opportunity to build a portfolio that includes some of the expectations of the college or university which they plan to attend.
AP Studio Art Information: The courses are yearlong and designed to provide students with a learning experience equivalent to that of an introductory college course in studio art foundation. Each course enables students to develop a body of work investigating a strong underlying visual idea in Drawing, 2-D Design, or 3-D Design that grows out of a coherent plan of action or investigation (i.e., a “concentration”). Students should be aware that these classes require advanced artistic technical knowledge and skills. There should be a commitment to rigorous completion of quality artwork inside and outside of class. Students will explore areas of personal quality within the artwork. They will determine and explore an area of concentration focusing on a personal visual interest or problem. The students will be expected to demonstrate a proficiency in formal, technical, and expressive means within the artwork. They will expand vocabulary and writing skills, while applying analytical skills. The classes will require maintaining an art notebook. In addition, the students will complete a body of work for the required AP Portfolio. Students will submit a portfolio to the College Board that demonstrates mastery of the skills and concepts in the area of concentration.
AP Studio Art: 2-D Design Concentration (91480AP)
Prerequisite: Art IV
This portfolio is intended to address two-dimensional (2-D) design issues. Design involves purposeful decision making about how to use the elements and principles of art in an integrative way. The principles of design (unity/variety, balance, emphasis, contrast, rhythm, repetition, proportion/scale, figure/ground relationships) can be articulated through the visual elements (line, shape, color, value, texture, space). They help guide artists in making decisions about how to organize an image on a picture plane in order to communicate content. Effective design is possible whether one uses representational or abstract approaches to art. For this portfolio, students are asked to demonstrate mastery of 2-D design through any two-dimensional medium or process, including, but not limited to, graphic design, digital imaging, photography, collage, fabric design, weaving, fashion design, fashion illustration, painting and printmaking. Video clips, DVDs, CDs and three-dimensional works may not be submitted. However, still images from videos or films are accepted. Links to samples of student work in the 2-D Design portfolio can be found at apcentral.collegeboard.com/studio2D. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
Prerequisite: Art IV
This portfolio is intended to address two-dimensional (2-D) design issues. Design involves purposeful decision making about how to use the elements and principles of art in an integrative way. The principles of design (unity/variety, balance, emphasis, contrast, rhythm, repetition, proportion/scale, figure/ground relationships) can be articulated through the visual elements (line, shape, color, value, texture, space). They help guide artists in making decisions about how to organize an image on a picture plane in order to communicate content. Effective design is possible whether one uses representational or abstract approaches to art. For this portfolio, students are asked to demonstrate mastery of 2-D design through any two-dimensional medium or process, including, but not limited to, graphic design, digital imaging, photography, collage, fabric design, weaving, fashion design, fashion illustration, painting and printmaking. Video clips, DVDs, CDs and three-dimensional works may not be submitted. However, still images from videos or films are accepted. Links to samples of student work in the 2-D Design portfolio can be found at apcentral.collegeboard.com/studio2D. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
AP Studio Art: 3-D Design Concentration (91490AP)
Prerequisite: Art IV
This portfolio is intended to address sculptural issues. Design involves purposeful decision making about using the elements and principles of art in an integrative way. In the 3-D Design Portfolio, students are asked to demonstrate their understanding of design principles as they relate to the integration of depth and space, volume and surface. The principles of design (unity/variety, balance, emphasis, contrast, rhythm, repetition, proportion/scale, and occupied/unoccupied space) can be articulated through the visual elements (mass, volume, color/light, form, plane, line, texture). For this portfolio, students are asked to demonstrate mastery of 3-D design through any three-dimensional approach, including, but not limited to, figurative or nonfigurative sculpture, architectural models, metal work, ceramics, glass work, installation, assemblage and 3-D fabric/fiber arts. There is no preferred (or unacceptable) style or content. Links to samples of student work in the 3-D Design portfolio can be found at apcentral.collegeboard.com/studio3D. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
Prerequisite: Art IV
This portfolio is intended to address sculptural issues. Design involves purposeful decision making about using the elements and principles of art in an integrative way. In the 3-D Design Portfolio, students are asked to demonstrate their understanding of design principles as they relate to the integration of depth and space, volume and surface. The principles of design (unity/variety, balance, emphasis, contrast, rhythm, repetition, proportion/scale, and occupied/unoccupied space) can be articulated through the visual elements (mass, volume, color/light, form, plane, line, texture). For this portfolio, students are asked to demonstrate mastery of 3-D design through any three-dimensional approach, including, but not limited to, figurative or nonfigurative sculpture, architectural models, metal work, ceramics, glass work, installation, assemblage and 3-D fabric/fiber arts. There is no preferred (or unacceptable) style or content. Links to samples of student work in the 3-D Design portfolio can be found at apcentral.collegeboard.com/studio3D. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
AP Studio Art: Drawing Portfolio (91500AP)
Prerequisite: Art IV
The Drawing Portfolio is intended to address a very broad interpretation of drawing issues and media. Line quality, light and shade, rendering of form, composition, surface manipulation, the illusion of depth and mark-making are drawing issues that can be addressed through a variety of means, which could include painting, printmaking, mixed media, etc. Abstract and observational works may demonstrate drawing competence. The range of marks used to make drawings, the arrangement of those marks, and the materials used to make the marks are endless. There is no preferred (or unacceptable) style or content. Any work submitted in the Drawing Portfolio that incorporates digital or photographic processes must address issues such as those listed above. Using computer programs merely to manipulate photographs through filters, adjustments or special effects is not appropriate for the Drawing Portfolio. Links to student work in the Drawing portfolio can be found at apcentral.collegeboard.com/studiodrawing. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
Prerequisite: Art IV
The Drawing Portfolio is intended to address a very broad interpretation of drawing issues and media. Line quality, light and shade, rendering of form, composition, surface manipulation, the illusion of depth and mark-making are drawing issues that can be addressed through a variety of means, which could include painting, printmaking, mixed media, etc. Abstract and observational works may demonstrate drawing competence. The range of marks used to make drawings, the arrangement of those marks, and the materials used to make the marks are endless. There is no preferred (or unacceptable) style or content. Any work submitted in the Drawing Portfolio that incorporates digital or photographic processes must address issues such as those listed above. Using computer programs merely to manipulate photographs through filters, adjustments or special effects is not appropriate for the Drawing Portfolio. Links to student work in the Drawing portfolio can be found at apcentral.collegeboard.com/studiodrawing. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
AP Art History (91510AP)
This yearlong course exposes students to a comprehensive study of the history of art. The course includes study of architecture, painting, sculpture, and other art forms, within cultural and historical contexts. Students will examine the major forms of artistic expression in the past and present, including our own and that of other cultures. Students will learn to express opinions, conduct research, and to compare and contrast styles verbally and in writing. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
This yearlong course exposes students to a comprehensive study of the history of art. The course includes study of architecture, painting, sculpture, and other art forms, within cultural and historical contexts. Students will examine the major forms of artistic expression in the past and present, including our own and that of other cultures. Students will learn to express opinions, conduct research, and to compare and contrast styles verbally and in writing. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
Concert Band I (92320G)
Prerequisite: Middle School Band or Audition
In this course students will continue to develop their musicianship and music literacy. Students will perform ascending and descending scales in various key signatures and develop ensemble skills. Students will refine ability to produce a controlled tonal quality, and broaden their knowledge of musical terms. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Middle School Band or Audition
In this course students will continue to develop their musicianship and music literacy. Students will perform ascending and descending scales in various key signatures and develop ensemble skills. Students will refine ability to produce a controlled tonal quality, and broaden their knowledge of musical terms. This is a performance based course.
Concert Band II (92330G)
Prerequisite: Concert Band I or Audition
In this course students will continue to refine individual and ensemble skills and perform a variety of musical works. Students will practice expressive elements of phrasing and style in individual and group performances. Students will demonstrate expanded technical proficiency, discuss interpretations of musical selections, and identify career and vocational choices in music. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Concert Band I or Audition
In this course students will continue to refine individual and ensemble skills and perform a variety of musical works. Students will practice expressive elements of phrasing and style in individual and group performances. Students will demonstrate expanded technical proficiency, discuss interpretations of musical selections, and identify career and vocational choices in music. This is a performance based course.
Concert Band III (92340G)
Prerequisite: Concert Band II or Audition
Prerequisite: Concert Band II or Audition
Students will continue to refine individual and ensemble skills and perform a variety of musical works. Students will practice expressive elements of phrasing and style in individual and group performances. Students will demonstrate expanded technical proficiency, discuss interpretations of musical selections, and identify career and vocational choices in music. This is a performance based course.
Concert Band IV (92440G)
Prerequisite: Concert Band III or Audition
In this course students will continue to refine individual and ensemble skills and perform a variety of musical works. Students will practice expressive elements of phrasing and style in individual and group performances. Students will demonstrate expanded technical proficiency, discuss interpretations of musical selections, and identify career and vocational choices in music. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Concert Band III or Audition
In this course students will continue to refine individual and ensemble skills and perform a variety of musical works. Students will practice expressive elements of phrasing and style in individual and group performances. Students will demonstrate expanded technical proficiency, discuss interpretations of musical selections, and identify career and vocational choices in music. This is a performance based course.
Symphonic Band I (92370G)
Prerequisite: Concert Band I or Audition
In this course students will develop ensemble skills and develop fluency in tone quality with a variety of articulations at various tempos. Students will perform complex meters and rhythmic patterns. Students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Concert Band I or Audition
In this course students will develop ensemble skills and develop fluency in tone quality with a variety of articulations at various tempos. Students will perform complex meters and rhythmic patterns. Students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Symphonic Band II (92380G)
Prerequisite: Symphonic Band I or Audition
In this course students will develop individual skills through all major scales. Percussion students will play 26 drumming rudiments. Students will identify key signatures and apply to all music being performed. Students will play with accurate melodic and harmonic intonation. Students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Symphonic Band I or Audition
In this course students will develop individual skills through all major scales. Percussion students will play 26 drumming rudiments. Students will identify key signatures and apply to all music being performed. Students will play with accurate melodic and harmonic intonation. Students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Symphonic Band III (92390G)
Prerequisite: Symphonic Band II or Audition
In this course students will experience music literature of various styles, composers and compositional techniques congruent with the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) Grade levels 5 and 6 Literature. Students will interpret music within a historical perspective and style and demonstrate sight-reading skills in moderately advanced rhythmic structures and keys. Students will play with accurate melodic and harmonic intonation. Students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Symphonic Band II or Audition
In this course students will experience music literature of various styles, composers and compositional techniques congruent with the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) Grade levels 5 and 6 Literature. Students will interpret music within a historical perspective and style and demonstrate sight-reading skills in moderately advanced rhythmic structures and keys. Students will play with accurate melodic and harmonic intonation. Students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Symphonic Band IV (92420G)
Prerequisite: Symphonic Band III or Audition
In this course students will exhibit artist level technical and expressive skills. Students will experience music literature of various styles, composers and compositional techniques congruent with the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) Grade levels 5 and 6 Literature. They will contribute to ensemble rehearsals by discussing solutions for musical problems encountered. Students will demonstrate a positive attitude toward music, self-discipline, group cooperation and the highest levels of leadership. Students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Symphonic Band III or Audition
In this course students will exhibit artist level technical and expressive skills. Students will experience music literature of various styles, composers and compositional techniques congruent with the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) Grade levels 5 and 6 Literature. They will contribute to ensemble rehearsals by discussing solutions for musical problems encountered. Students will demonstrate a positive attitude toward music, self-discipline, group cooperation and the highest levels of leadership. Students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Jazz Band I (92500G)
In this course the primary focus is the preparation and performance of the finest jazz and popular literature. The further advancement of musical skills, both individual and ensemble, will be paramount to the success of the student and the organization. Great emphasis is placed on individual musical responsibility and the development of the jazz idiom and improvisation. Members of the Jazz Band are expected to prepare and perform as the pit orchestra for the school musical. Students in this class are expected to perform with all other performing groups as needed. There will be out-of-school time required for rehearsals and performances. Course goals will include public performances and students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
In this course the primary focus is the preparation and performance of the finest jazz and popular literature. The further advancement of musical skills, both individual and ensemble, will be paramount to the success of the student and the organization. Great emphasis is placed on individual musical responsibility and the development of the jazz idiom and improvisation. Members of the Jazz Band are expected to prepare and perform as the pit orchestra for the school musical. Students in this class are expected to perform with all other performing groups as needed. There will be out-of-school time required for rehearsals and performances. Course goals will include public performances and students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Jazz Band II (92520G)
In this course the primary focus is the preparation and performance of the finest jazz and popular literature. The further advancement of musical skills, both individual and ensemble, will be paramount to the success of the student and the organization. Great emphasis is placed on individual musical responsibility and the development of the jazz idiom and improvisation. Members of the Jazz Band are expected to prepare and perform as the pit orchestra for the school musical. Students in this class are expected to perform with all other performing groups as needed. There will be out-of-school time required for rehearsals and performances. Course goals will include public performances and students will be provided opportunities to participate in local, district, regional and state events. This is a performance based course.
Guitar I (92450G)
In this course the students will learn basic guitar skills including identifying parts of the guitar, the history and how to tune by ear. They will begin to read music and learn basic strumming techniques with a pick. Students will learn to play open chords and arpeggios using just their fingers.
In this course the students will learn basic guitar skills including identifying parts of the guitar, the history and how to tune by ear. They will begin to read music and learn basic strumming techniques with a pick. Students will learn to play open chords and arpeggios using just their fingers.
Guitar II (92470G)
Prerequisite: Guitar I or instructor approval by audition
In this course the students will continue to develop guitar skills in playing chords, scales, and music theory. Additional scales, chords, and playing styles will be explored. Students will have the opportunity for more solo and ensemble performances in and outside of class.
Prerequisite: Guitar I or instructor approval by audition
In this course the students will continue to develop guitar skills in playing chords, scales, and music theory. Additional scales, chords, and playing styles will be explored. Students will have the opportunity for more solo and ensemble performances in and outside of class.
AP Music Theory (92260AP)
Prerequisite: Intermediate Band II; strong background in musical concepts, entry exam, and audition
This is a yearlong course. The ultimate goal of an Advanced Placement Music Theory course is to develop a student’s ability to recognize, understand, and describe the basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. The achievement of this goal may be best promoted by integrated approaches to the student’s development of: aural skills listening exercises, sight-singing skills performance exercises, written skills through written exercises, compositional skills creative exercises, and analytical skills analytical exercises. The course should seek first to instill mastery of the rudiments and terminology of music, including hearing and notating: pitches, intervals, scales and keys, chords, meter, and rhythm. Students will learn these basic concepts through listening to a wide variety of music, including not only music from standard Western tonal repertoire but also twentieth-century art music, jazz, popular music, and the music of non-Western cultures. Students will work on the acquisition of correct notational skills, as well as developing speed and fluency with basic materials. Students will be required to read, notate, write, sing, and listen to music. Performance – using singing, keyboard, and students’ primary performance media – will also be a part of the learning process. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
Prerequisite: Intermediate Band II; strong background in musical concepts, entry exam, and audition
This is a yearlong course. The ultimate goal of an Advanced Placement Music Theory course is to develop a student’s ability to recognize, understand, and describe the basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. The achievement of this goal may be best promoted by integrated approaches to the student’s development of: aural skills listening exercises, sight-singing skills performance exercises, written skills through written exercises, compositional skills creative exercises, and analytical skills analytical exercises. The course should seek first to instill mastery of the rudiments and terminology of music, including hearing and notating: pitches, intervals, scales and keys, chords, meter, and rhythm. Students will learn these basic concepts through listening to a wide variety of music, including not only music from standard Western tonal repertoire but also twentieth-century art music, jazz, popular music, and the music of non-Western cultures. Students will work on the acquisition of correct notational skills, as well as developing speed and fluency with basic materials. Students will be required to read, notate, write, sing, and listen to music. Performance – using singing, keyboard, and students’ primary performance media – will also be a part of the learning process. This course receives advanced weighted credit, if the student sits for the corresponding College Board exam.
Beginning Chorus I (92601G)
This course focuses on beginning vocal techniques, reading and writing basic musical notation, critiquing musical events, following conducting, and singing unison and harmony. Students will perform selections representing contrasting periods and styles. This is a performance based course.
This course focuses on beginning vocal techniques, reading and writing basic musical notation, critiquing musical events, following conducting, and singing unison and harmony. Students will perform selections representing contrasting periods and styles. This is a performance based course.
Beginning Chorus II (92602G)
Prerequisite: Beginning Chorus I or audition
In this course the study of beginning vocal techniques is continued. Students also incorporate expressive qualities into their singing, and learn the importance of contributing to group goals. This is a performance based course.
In this course the study of beginning vocal techniques is continued. Students also incorporate expressive qualities into their singing, and learn the importance of contributing to group goals. This is a performance based course.
Intermediate Chorus I (92851G)
Prerequisite: Beginning Chorus II or audition
In this course students will develop tone quality and intonation, and will read and sight-sing notation of simple patterns. They will demonstrate expected rehearsal decorum and appropriate attitude. Students will use expressive qualities of dynamics, tempo, blend, and balance in group performance. Placement in this course will be based on skill level and teacher recommendation. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Beginning Chorus II or audition
In this course students will develop tone quality and intonation, and will read and sight-sing notation of simple patterns. They will demonstrate expected rehearsal decorum and appropriate attitude. Students will use expressive qualities of dynamics, tempo, blend, and balance in group performance. Placement in this course will be based on skill level and teacher recommendation. This is a performance based course.
Intermediate Chorus II (92852G)
Prerequisite: Intermediate Chorus I or audition
In this course students will sing music containing three or more parts. They will identify phonal textures, basic musical terms, and simple structural forms. Students will demonstrate improvisational skills and develop an awareness of career and vocational opportunities in music. Placement in this course will be based on skill level and teacher recommendation. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Intermediate Chorus I or audition
In this course students will sing music containing three or more parts. They will identify phonal textures, basic musical terms, and simple structural forms. Students will demonstrate improvisational skills and develop an awareness of career and vocational opportunities in music. Placement in this course will be based on skill level and teacher recommendation. This is a performance based course.
Advanced Chorus I (92891G)
Prerequisite: Intermediate Chorus II or audition
In this course students will develop a command of vocal production and intonation appropriate for the level of music being studied. They will refine expression and interpretive skills. Students will demonstrate appropriate posture and breathing techniques. This is a performance based course.
In this course students will develop a command of vocal production and intonation appropriate for the level of music being studied. They will refine expression and interpretive skills. Students will demonstrate appropriate posture and breathing techniques. This is a performance based course.
Advanced Chorus II (92892G)
Prerequisite: Advanced Chorus I or audition
In this course students will sight-sing in a variety of keys and meters. They will write pitch and rhythmic notation of melodies of two or more phrases. Students will sing music containing four or more parts. This is a performance based course.
In this course students will sight-sing in a variety of keys and meters. They will write pitch and rhythmic notation of melodies of two or more phrases. Students will sing music containing four or more parts. This is a performance based course.
Advanced Chorus III (92893G)
Prerequisite: Advanced Chorus II or audition
In this course students will respond to complex conducting patterns and interpretive gestures. They will name various compositional devices in music. Students will perform selections of all major periods and make informed choices of music from varied cultural and ethnic origins. Placement in this course will be based on skill level and teacher recommendation. This is a performance based course.
In this course students will respond to complex conducting patterns and interpretive gestures. They will name various compositional devices in music. Students will perform selections of all major periods and make informed choices of music from varied cultural and ethnic origins. Placement in this course will be based on skill level and teacher recommendation. This is a performance based course.
Advanced Chorus IV (92894G)
Prerequisite: Advanced Chorus III or audition
In this course students will use appropriate musical vocabulary, and critique a variety of musical performances. They will demonstrate knowledge of form and structure in a given choral score. Students will explore and discuss careers and vocational opportunities in music. Placement in this course will be based on skill level and teacher recommendation. This is a performance based course.
Prerequisite: Advanced Chorus III or audition
In this course students will use appropriate musical vocabulary, and critique a variety of musical performances. They will demonstrate knowledge of form and structure in a given choral score. Students will explore and discuss careers and vocational opportunities in music. Placement in this course will be based on skill level and teacher recommendation. This is a performance based course.