Visual & Performing Arts

This is an introductory course that presents drawing through representation from direct observation. It focuses on the development of observational skills and drawing techniques, employing a wide range of drawing media and subject matter. Drawing is fundamentally about learning to see and transporting that vision onto paper through a variety of mark-making techniques. Students learn to visually perceive, analyze, and interpret visual information through the act of drawing. The course covers contour lines as a conveyor of form, negative and positive space, how to create value using tones and colors, linear perspective, and face and figure proportions. The Elements of Art and Principles of Design serve as a basis for composition and complement each of the subjects covered in class. Through the practical experience of drawing this class helps students build a foundation that allows them to pursue and develop a more advanced interest in the arts. Students are given an opportunity to show their work during the year and during the annual art show.

Students learn about ceramics from an historical perspective. They learn different techniques of making pottery, as well as develop their own decorating styles. Included is the importance of safety and health while working in the ceramic classroom. At the beginning of the year students learn the different hand-building techniques. The firing techniques are introduced, beginning with a primitive pit firing. Students are presented with a decorating technique with each new project. Throughout the year terms and vocabulary are introduced which students are tested on at the end of the 1st quarter, at semester, and at the end of the year by written exam. At the beginning of the 2nd quarter each student is introduced to the electric wheel. Because students learn in a variety of ways, the techniques and terms are introduced in a variety of ways, through reading materials, demonstrations, and videos. The students are assigned research projects and are asked to keep a journal with sketches. Lectures are kept to a minimum, but there is always a conversation going on regarding vocabulary while the students are working on their projects.

Ceramics II students learn about ceramics from an historical perspective researching well-known artists past and present and comparing the artists’ body of work. Students begin the year practicing their skills and improve those skills throughout the year. They also begin to take on responsibilities to maintain the studio and work with first-year students. At the beginning of the year, students practice on the electric wheel, reacquainting themselves with the properties of clay. They learn and practice new decorating techniques, and practice altering skills. As the year progresses, each project becomes more challenging, including handles, sprigging, and original decorations. Because students learn in a variety of ways, the techniques and terms are introduced in a variety of ways, through reading materials, demonstrations, and videos. The students are assigned research projects and are asked to keep a journal with sketches. Lectures are kept to a minimum, but there is always a conversation going on regarding vocabulary while the students are working on their projects.

Prerequisites: Ceramics I

Foundations of Voice is a junior/senior-level course for students who love to sing, and who demonstrate above average talent. The course provides them with an opportunity to sing in a small group with close harmonies and gives them many solo opportunities. Topics covered in lecture include how singing is produced in the body, breathing, posture, diction, belting, preparing a song, confronting fear, and the fundamentals of playing piano. Basic music theory and composition are stressed. The course culminates in a recital the evening before graduation, which includes each student singing a classical piece in a second language and another solo of his or her choosing.

Prerequisites: Demonstration of ability and department approval.

Textbooks:

  • Singing For Dummies, 2nd edition, 2011by Pamelia S. Phillips; Wiley Publishing, Inc.; ISBN-13: 978-0-470-64020-3. This book can be purchased new, used or in digital format.
  • Essentials of Music Theory, Complete 1st Edition by Andrew Surmani, Karen Farnum Surmani, Morton Manus; Alfred Publishing Company; ISBN-13: 978-0882848976. Students must buy new copy.

This course will provide students an opportunity to learn the basics of recording, mixing,
and producing music. Students will get to work with and develop their skills with the music software Ableton, learning both how to record straight into the software and import media. Individuals and groups will be able to have a space to record, mix, and produce tracks and EPs, with the goal of the class to leave with digital media that the students can be proud to share and keep forever. Although no knowledge of music theory or instrument performance experience is necessary, both an open mind and open ears will. This course meets the University of California requirements as a one-year Visual & Performing Arts course.

No textbook

Students learn to recognize and understand the basic materials of music – including melody, harmony, rhythm, dynamics, texture and form. Students develop their skills through listening, dictation, sight-singing, harmonic analysis, and composition. Each student learns basic keyboard proficiency including scales, chords and arpeggios. In addition to daily written assignments, sight-singing, and dictation, students complete a series of compositions throughout the year. Students become familiar with a wide variety of music software to aid in learning and composition, including Sibelius, Auralia and a broad range of synthesizers and music recording software.

Textbook:

  • Essentials of Music Theory, Complete 1st Edition, by Andrew Surmani, Karen Farnum Surmani, Morton Manus; Alfred Publishing Company; ISBN-13: 978-0882848976

Music History is an overview of western music beginning with Gregorian chant and continuing through contemporary music. Daily listening enhances the lecture/discussion format of the class. Although the main focus of the course is composers and their works, students explore the social, political, literary and artistic figures and works of the time.

Textbook:

  • Music: An Appreciation, 10th Edition by Roger Kamien; McGraw Hill; ISBN-10: 0078025087

This year-long course will lay down the fundamentals of piano. Students will work through basic concepts of piano playing, such as posture, hand positioning, scales, and chords. They will work through concepts of music theory, such as basic notation, rhythm, notes on the staff, bass and treble clef, and performance practice. The musical history and context of piano will also be explored, ranging from early harpsichord, pop and contemporary music, and everything in between. The course will end with a recital demonstrating the students’ efforts throughout the course of the year. This course meets the University of California requirements as a one-year Visual & Performing Arts course.

Workbook:

Alfred’s Essentials of Music Theory: Book 1, by Andrew Surmani. Alfred Publishing Company. Students must have a new copy, as this is a workbook.

Guitar is a year-long course for students who are interested in learning how to develop and advance their guitar playing. Students will work individually and in small group settings to reinforce their understanding of the basics of guitar, including chords, scales, strumming, and fingerpicking. The history of the guitar will be explored, as well as listening to guitar music in all genres, classical through rock. Basic music theory will be incorporated throughout the year to enhance the students’ musical comprehension. Students will also explore songwriting and recording as a form of self-expression. There will be numerous performing opportunities throughout the year on campus, as well as attending concerts and shows off campus. The main objectives of the class include skill development, increasing reading ability, and life-long love and appreciation of guitar and music in general. The course culminates in a recital at the end of the year, where each student will play in a variety of solo, duo, and ensembles settings.

Prerequisites: Demonstration of ability and department approval.

Textbook:

  • Alfred’s Essentials of Music Theory, Complete 1st Edition by Andrew Surmani, Karen Farnum Surmani, Morton Manus; Alfred Publishing Company; ISBN-13: 978-0882848976. Students must buy a new copy

The beginning dance courses are broken down into two semester-long courses in which students will learn vocabulary and fundamental techniques of a variety of dance styles. Students will also explore basic choreography and dance history, with emphasis placed on technique, movement skills, knowledge of history and aesthetics of each dance style. Components related to health, fitness, mental and social-emotional wellness will be explored. This dance class strives to promote a lifelong interest in and appreciation for dance and movement as an art form, and as a lifelong practice of health and wellness, and is open to all grade levels. The first semester focuses on American dance and history, the second semester focuses on dance and culture.

Textbook:

  • The Dancer Prepares: Modern Dance for Beginners by Penrod, James and Janice Gudde Plastino; 5th Ed. New York, McGraw-Hill Education, ISBN 978-0072557268; copies available in the library
  • Beginning Ballet by Gayle Kassing, Human Kinetics, 2013. ISBN 978-1450402491
  • World Dance Cultures: From Ritual to Spectacle by Patricia Beaman, United Kingdom: Routledge, 2017; copies available in the library

Theater 1 will introduce students to the fundamentals of stage drama. The semester will focus on understanding the text, building confidence, and forming an awareness and presence while on stage. Students will be able to practice in a safe environment in preparation for public performances while fostering imagination and creativity. Academic skills such as analytical writing will be utilized as they study plays and they will have the opportunity to create diagrams and sketches for theoretical productions. Student actors will perform in a One-Act mid-semester and there will be a cumulative Monologue and Duet performance at the end of the course. This semester is designed to be both a standalone course as well as provide the foundation of theatre study for those moving on to Theater 2.

No textbooks or prerequisites are required

The focus of this semester course will be on producing the Spring musical. Theater II will build upon theater skills introduced in Theater I, such as performance techniques and technical theater elements. In Theater 2, students will be introduced to audition techniques, and professional and industrial terminology. Acting and character development, ensemble work, singing and musical technique, movement and dance techniques will be emphasized. All units of study will culminate in a performance of a complete stage production, with full cast and crew, costumes, make-up, lights, sound, and audience. Interested students will be prepared to continue their theater studies at the college level, and/or to go on auditions for professional theatrical productions in the entertainment industry. This course seeks to promote a lifelong interest in and appreciation for acting, music, dance and the theater.

Prerequisite: Theater I

In this class, students learn the basics of photography: exposure, lighting, focus, depth of field, shutter speed, and more. They will develop digital image processing and manipulation skills on the computer using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Weekly assignments support/reinforce topics covered in class. Students learn how to discuss and view their own, as well as other students’ work critically. Students will compile a portfolio of their work and pieces by each of the students will be displayed on campus and online.

Prerequisites: No prior knowledge of camera, computer, or Adobe Photoshop is necessary. However each student must own his or her own digital camera.

Students will build on the skills they learned in Photography I. Students will work on camera techniques to enhance interpretation, lighting evaluation, advanced computer skills for manipulation in Adobe Photoshop, and various output techniques. In addition, students will be exposed to studio lighting, developing their skills in lighting techniques ranging from portraiture, fashion, still life, and product photography. This course will focus students’ concentration on seeing photographically, making a good photograph better, and utilizing solid techniques for creating outstanding images. A D-SLR or Mirrorless camera is strongly recommended. Prerequisite: Photography I or teacher approval.

No Textbook

Advanced Studio Art introduces the concepts and processes of studio art through exposure to two and three-dimensional design. Students will explore different materials and techniques in the media of drawing, painting, printmaking, scratchboard, collage/mixed media, and sculpture. The purpose of this course is to teach students how to produce thoughtful artwork through conceptual investigation that has both content and creativity. Visual representation of ideas can be the key to successful comprehension and implementation of plans. Students have the opportunity to express their individual talents by completing a variety of unique and challenging projects. Creativity and work made from direct observation are encouraged. Assignments will emphasize design, craftsmanship, composition, and creativity. The work ethic and focus developed through sustained observation, problem-solving and creativity in this class will serve a student in almost every other area of their life.

Prerequisites: Drawing

The AP Drawing course presents an inquiry-based approach to learning about making and designing art. The course framework is composed of course skills, big ideas, essential questions and enduring understandings, learning objectives, and essential knowledge statements. Students are expected to conduct an in-depth, sustained investigation of materials, processes, and ideas that demonstrates practice, experimentation, and revision guided by questions. At the start of the school year, students decided on the concept, subject, and medium of their sustained investigation. Over the course of the school year, there are due dates that are set every two weeks, and students create a portfolio of work that shows the development of their process and skills within their sustained investigation. Students must produce a minimum of 15 pieces of artwork that directly relates to their sustained investigation with a written explanation for each piece of artwork on the use of medium and process. During the first weeks of May, students submit their portfolio to the College Board and the readers evaluate the portfolio, and a high score on the evaluation may be accepted for college credit, depending on the policies of the specific institution to which they are applying. The course focuses on concepts of skills emphasized within collage art and helps students become inquisitive, thoughtful artists and designers who are able to articulate information about their work.

Prerequisites: Drawing and department approval.

This course presents an inquiry-based approach to learning about making and designing art. The course framework is composed of course skills, big ideas, essential questions and enduring understandings, learning objectives, and essential knowledge statements. Students are expected to conduct an in-depth, sustained investigation of materials, processes, and ideas that demonstrates practice, experimentation, and revision guided by questions. At the start of the school year, students decided on the concept, subject, and medium of their sustained investigation. Over the course of the school year, there are due dates that are set every two weeks, and students create a portfolio of work that shows the development of their process and skills within their sustained investigation. Students must produce a minimum of 15 pieces of artwork that directly relates to their sustained investigation with a written explanation for each piece of artwork on the use of medium and process. During the first weeks of May, students submit their portfolio to the College Board and the readers evaluate the portfolio, and a high score on the evaluation may be accepted for college credit, depending on the policies of the specific institution to which they are applying. The course focuses on concepts of skills emphasized within collage art and helps students become inquisitive, thoughtful artists and designers who are able to articulate information about their work.

Prerequisites: Drawing 1, Advanced Studio Art, and department approval.

This AP course is for the serious photography student who is highly self-motivated and committed to improving their skills and building a superior portfolio. This course is a yearlong, college level exploration of the principles of design as expressed through digital photography. AP work demands significantly more time and accomplishment than the typical high school course. AP Photography is not a course based on a written examination; instead students will create a portfolio for submission to the College Board in early May. Students will ultimately demonstrate their skills through a portfolio of photographs that shows the quality and breadth of their work as well as a planned investigation of an idea, known as the “Concentration,” of personal interest. The AP Portfolio requires students to show imaginative skill and a broad mastery of visual design concerns and approaches. Students will submit in digital format 15 of their best images, in addition to 5 printed images of their choosing.

Prerequisites: Photography with grade of B+ or higher and department approval. Each student must own his or her own digital camera.

The AP 3-D Art and Design course presents an inquiry-based approach to learning about making and designing art. The course framework is composed of course skills, big ideas, essential questions and enduring understandings, learning objectives, and essential knowledge statements. Students are expected to conduct an in-depth, sustained investigation of materials, processes, and ideas that demonstrates practice, experimentation, and revision guided by questions. At the start of the school year, students decided on the concept, subject, and medium of their sustained investigation. Over the course of the school year, there are due dates that are set every two weeks, and students create a portfolio of work that shows the development of their process and skills within their sustained investigation. Students must produce a minimum of 15 pieces of artwork that directly relates to their sustained investigation with a written explanation for each piece of artwork on the use of medium and process. During the first weeks of May, students submit their portfolio to the College Board and the readers evaluate the portfolio, and a high score on the evaluation may be accepted for college credit, depending on the policies of the specific institution to which they are applying. The course focuses on concepts of skills emphasized within collage art and helps students become inquisitive, thoughtful artists and designers who are able to articulate information about their work.

Prerequisites: Drawing, Advanced Studio Art, and department approval.

Media and Digital Design is a year-long course open to students in grades 9 through 12. The course emphasizes the field of digital studies and graphic design. Using Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, iMovie, Garage Band, and Adobe Dreamweaver as a platform for creative communication, students will have the opportunity to create a comprehensive digital portfolio. This will include: Photographic images, page layout and design, video production and editing, animations, graphic art, product branding, and website design. Students gain experience using industry-leading software as an artistic tool to bring their visions to life. Students build skills in pre-production, production, and post-production tasks. Students will also study business-related media and digital design, focusing on graphic design and production. Techniques studied and applied include advertising, business managing, journalistic writing, layout and design, desktop publishing, digital photography, and photo editing skills. In addition to studying design elements and principles, assignments will include responses to historical, philosophical and cultural prompts and allow students to learn to use art vocabulary in verbal and written analysis and in descriptions of their work and the work of their peers. Throughout the course, students will discuss the philosophical, cultural, and historical place of art in society by studying both contemporary and historical graphic artists and their impact on society and the art and business world. Those students interested in pursuing a career in media design will create a usable portfolio, showcasing their work from this course. All students will select and present a piece they created during this course to be displayed at the school’s Festival of Talent. The course will be of interest to students hoping to explore Art, Design, Graphic Design, Photography, Film, or Animation.

Video Production is a year-long Visual Art course. This course is designed for the study and practice of the introductory elements of video production and broadcast journalism. It will explore film production, theory and history. Lessons begin with video camera equipment and computer editing, building to include storyboarding, script writing, and advanced editing. Opportunities exist in advanced camera work, video mixing of multi-camera field and studio productions, sound production, voice-over work, etc. Students who have their own cameras and laptops will be encouraged to use them for shooting and editing projects. The Adobe software suite will be provided to those interested for editing. This is primarily a project-based course; expect hands-on learning to acquire new skills. Students will work alone and in collaborative teams to produce projects using cameras, while learning the basics of studio and field production, lighting and sound. Throughout the year, students will create multiple projects to meet course objectives, including, but not limited to: silent films, commercials, public service announcements, news reports, music videos, and short films. This entry-level course assumes no previous film or broadcast experience or training. The emphasis is visual storytelling using current technology. It will motivate learning through a rigorous and engaging curriculum.

Required Materials:

  • Samsung Portable SSD 500GB external solid state hard drive, or SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 500GB external solid state hard drive (for storing video projects)

Video Production II is a year-long course designed for students who have completed Video Production I and want to further their skills, knowledge and talents of video production. It will dive deeper into film production, theory and history. Advanced camera work, video mixing of multi-camera field productions, sound production, voice-over work and interviews are explored. Students who have their own cameras and laptops are encouraged to use them for shooting and editing projects. This is primarily a project-based course; expect hands-on learning to further skills. Students will work alone and in collaborative teams to produce projects, while learning more advanced techniques of studio and field production, lighting and sound. Throughout the year, students will create multiple projects to meet course objectives. The focus of this advanced-level course is broadcast journalism and documentary style filmmaking. The emphasis is visual storytelling using current technology. It will motivate learning through a rigorous, fast-paced and engaging curriculum.

Prerequisites: Video Production I

Required Materials:

  • Binder/Notebook dedicated solely to this class.
  • Apple laptop computer with minimum hardware to run Adobe Premiere Pro.
  • Samsung Portable SSD 500GB external solid state hard drive, or SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD 500GB external solid state hard drive (for storing video projects)

Intro to Woodworking is designed to teach students basic woodworking skills and an appreciation for the art itself. It is an appropriate course for the future hobbyist or professional. It will focus on the use and care of hand tools, selected power tools, identifications and appropriate uses of various types of wood, basic joinery, use of various fasteners, and a basic understanding of working drawings. Safety is an important part of the curriculum, and all students will be expected to abide by the safety rules. Students will not be allowed to operate any equipment until they have demonstrated an understanding of that tool and potential safety issues regarding the use of that tool. They will initially be supervised while using any tool and must always ask permission before using any power tool. At least three required projects will be assigned. Upon completion of these projects, students will work on individual projects, with the instructor’s approval. Original design and creativity is highly encouraged.

No textbook

Woodwork II builds upon the skills and knowledge from Woodworking 1. Students will learn about cabinetmaking, residential carpentry skills, and furniture repair. All students will be expected to abide by the safety rules. Students will not attempt to operate any equipment until they have passed a safety test, demonstrated operation and watched a demonstration of operation by the instructor of each piece of equipment and or hand power tool. Of particular interest, this course will introduce students to the use of a CNC router. Another unique aspect is the “Creative Tree” project where students mill their own wood and ultimately create a finished project from an actual log. Additionally, all students will partake in a community service project. Three required projects will be assigned. Upon completion of these projects, students will work on individual projects, with the instructor’s approval. Original design and creativity is highly encouraged. This intermediate course prepares students to confidently engage in home repair tasks and undertake more advanced woodworking projects for hobby purposes, income, or advancement within the industry.

No textbook