Table of Contents for Fine Arts Department
Performing Arts
An Introduction to Popular Song Writing - Grades 9-12
Understanding Music – Grades 9-12
History of Music – Grades 10-12
Saint Andrew’s Highlanders Pipe Band – Grades 9-12
Wind Ensemble – Grades 9-12
Symphonic Band – Grades 9-12
Wind Ensemble/Jazz Band I – Grades 9-12
Symphonic Band/Jazz Band II – Grades 9-12
Percussion Ensemble/ Jazz Band – Grades 9-12
Rhythm Combo/Jazz Band – Grades 9-12
String Ensemble – Grades 9-12
Beginning Guitar – Grades 9-12
Intermediate Guitar Ensemble – Grades 9-12
Guitar Ensemble – Grades 9-12
Introduction to Chorus – Grades 9-12
Saint Andrew’s Chorale – Grades 9-12
All-American Singer – Grades 9-12
Music Theory/Music Theory AP – Grades 11-12
Drama: History and Performance I – Grades 9-12
Drama: History and Performance II – Grades 9-12
Drama: History and Performance III – Grades 10-12
Drama: History and Performance IV – Grades 10-12
Stagecraft I – Grades 11-12
Stagecraft II – Grades 11-12
Stagecraft III & IV – Grades 11-12
Dance – Grades 9-12
FINE ARTS
Department of Performing Arts
The Performing Arts Department celebrates its diversity and aims to instill in students the essential skills within the various areas of the performing arts. The department is constantly challenged to develop different ways to instill confidence, creativity, responsibility, and knowledge to all our students in all performing art venues. The programs presented in the area of drama, instrumental and vocal music reflect the department’s commitment to this challenge. Many areas of the performing arts require a collaborative effort. Students’ development of positive social skills and the means for solving problems in a creative manner creates an important vehicle for life-long learning.
The goals of the Performing Arts Department are designed to help students think in a creative manner and expand their horizons. The importance of appreciating and understand the creative endeavors and achievements of other artists are taught, while constantly striving to develop students’ abilities to recognize and appreciate the arts as a historical reflection of humankind’s advancements, values and cultures.
Purpose and Objectives:
- To develop clearly defined skills through a sequence of essential elements necessary for excellence in performance.
- To development a student’s own expressive interpretation. Students discover ways to interpret expression representation of a particular culture or historical period.
- To demonstrate knowledge of the basic principles of performance. Students develop recognition, define and show their understanding of terms and symbols through their performance as they encounter them.
- To learn to speculate as to how a composer or play writer could generate a particular mood. Through analysis of the work and comparison to their own speculations, students grow in their capacity to understand the nature of artistic expression and the tools necessary for generating artistic expression.
PERFORMING ARTS: MUSIC
AN INTRODUCTION TO POPULAR SONGWRITING
Grades 9-12
This semester course will introduce the students to the fundamentals and elements of songwriting in the popular style. Topics include: lyric writing, melody writing, music notation (on paper and using current technologies), chord progressions, chord application, and the analysis of the works of noted songwriters of the past and present.
UNDERSTANDING MUSIC
Grades 9-12
This semester course is a general music course covering basic history, theory, terminology, and varying styles of music. Some of the topics will include folk and ethnic music, early music, basic acoustics, instruments and how they work, opera, film and background music, sound reproduction and recording, and the business of popular and rock music.
A HISTORY OF MUSIC
Grades 10-12
This semester course will cover the history of music primarily in the Western European tradition, beginning with the music of antiquity and continuing chronologically through the current day. Although the emphasis will be in the classical genre, as this form not only constitutes the vast majority of the history of music, but also influenced the music of today, other relevant styles such as folk, spirituals, gospel, jazz, and rock will be discussed.
SAINT ANDREW’S HIGHLANDERS PIPE BAND
Grades 9-12
This class is offered to students who wish to learn to play the Scotch “Phoebmore” or Highland Great Pipe. The class will meet Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 7 – 7:45 am. The class is the nucleus of the Saint Andrew’s Highlanders Pipe Band and will require occasional additional rehearsal time in preparation for performances outside the regular school day.
PREREQUISITE: Departmental approval
Wind Ensemble
Grades 9-12
This full-year course provides students with a more in-depth exploration of repertoire and techniques. This exploration includes a greater variety of styles, a higher demand on playing skills, and a requirement for greater musical sensitivity. Membership in the course is of a “select” nature in order to adhere to the “one-on-a-part” concept, except for Flutes, Clarinets, and Percussionists. Particular attention is given to developing independent playing skills and confidence, acuity of intonation and advanced rhythms, and development of expressive elements. Repertoire is determined by the instrumentation of the ensemble. Analysis of performance and assessment of performance are large components of the course. All students in this class are required to participate in the Florida Bandmasters Association Music Performance Assessment. Performance opportunities are abundant for members of the class and may include off-campus performances in addition to school- related functions.
PREREQUISITE: Audition
SYMPHONIC BAND
Grades 9-12
This full-year course is offered to any student who has an advanced skill level on a band instrument. A heavy emphasis is placed on advanced wind band literature and performance. Performance events outside the regular school day are required. Solo-Ensemble study is also a requirement of this course. Students enrolled in this course are also members of the Saint Andrew’s Pep Band and play at designated athletic events throughout the year.
PREREQUISITE: Audition or Director’s recommendation
Wind Ensemble / Jazz Band I
Grades 9-12
This full-year course provides students with a more in-depth exploration of repertoire and techniques. This exploration includes a greater variety of styles, a higher demand on playing skills, and a requirement for greater musical sensitivity. Membership in the course is of a “select” nature in order to adhere to the “one-on-a-part” concept. This course is offered to any student who has an advanced skill level and interest in improvisation on a brass instrument (trumpet or trombone), or woodwind instrument (alto, tenor, or baritone saxophone). Proper instrument balance is essential and therefore the number of instruments selected will be limited. Repertoire is determined by the instrumentation of the ensemble. Analysis of performance and assessment of performance are large components of the course. All students in this class are required to participate in the Florida Bandmasters Association Music Performance Assessment for both Concert Band and Jazz Band. Performance opportunities are abundant for members of the class and may include off-campus performances in addition to school- related functions.
PREREQUISITE: Audition
SYMPHONIC BAND / JAZZ BAND II
Grades 9-12
This full-year course is offered to any student who has an advanced skill level and interest in improvisation on a brass instrument (trumpet or trombone), woodwind instrument (alto, tenor, or baritone saxophone), piano, guitar (lead or bass), and percussion (drum set). Proper instrument balance is essential and therefore the number of instruments selected will be limited. Students enrolled as members of this group are also required to participate as members of the Symphonic Band and members of the Saint Andrew’s Pep Band and play at designated athletic events throughout the year.
PREREQUISITE: Audition
Percussion Ensemble/Jazz Band
Grades 9-12
This full-year course is offered to any student who has an advanced skill level and interest in improvisation on piano, guitar (lead or bass), vibraphone and percussion (drum set). Proper instrument balance is essential and therefore the number of instruments selected will be limited. Students enrolled as members of this group are required to participate as members of the Percussion Ensemble, which will incorporate a more in-depth exploration of repertoire and techniques. This exploration includes a greater variety of styles, a higher demand on playing skills, and a requirement for greater musical sensitivity. Repertoire is determined by the size of the ensemble. All students in this class are required to participate in the Florida Bandmasters Association Music Performance Assessment for Jazz Band and the Solo & Ensemble Festival. Performance opportunities are abundant for members of the class and may include off-campus performances in addition to school- related functions.
PREREQUISITE: Audition
Rhythm Combo/Jazz Band
Grades 9-12
This full-year course provides students with a more in-depth exploration of repertoire and techniques. This exploration includes a greater variety of styles, a higher demand on playing skills, and a requirement for greater musical sensitivity. Membership in the course is of a “select” nature in order to adhere to the “one-on-a-part” concept. This course is offered to any student who has an advanced skill level and interest in improvisation for the rhythm section players (piano, guitar, bass, mallets, and drum set). Proper instrument balance is essential and therefore the number of instruments selected will be limited. Repertoire is determined by the instrumentation of the ensemble. Analysis of performance and assessment of performance are large components of the course. All students in this class are required to participate in the Florida Bandmasters Association Music Performance Assessment for Jazz Band. Performance opportunities are abundant for members of the class and may include off-campus performances in addition to school- related functions.
Rhythm section players not involved with Symphonic, Wind Ensemble, or Percussion Ensemble will be exploring different jazz repertoire. These students will be responsible for melody, harmony, and improvisation of selected jazz literature. Each student will be required to listen to recordings from a variety of jazz artist and genres. Students will get a better understanding of each players role within the rhythm section from small group to big band setting,
PREREQUISITE: Audition
String ENSEMBLE
Grades 9-12
This full-year course is offered to any student who has an interest in learning to play the violin, viola, cello or bass. Through a progressive course of study, students with little or no experience will be able to develop the essential skills to participate in a string orchestra. Classes take place in an orchestral setting from the very first day. Students will be able to perform as a group in public within two or three months. This course will emphasize the music written by the great classical master composers. Special groups will be formed by students with previous experience. It is the goal of this course to lay the foundation for a future symphony orchestra.
PREREQUISITE: There is no prerequisite for beginners; however students with previous experience should contact the Director for proper placement in a special performing group.
Beginning Guitar (Spring Semester)
Grades 9-12
This guitar class is for the student who has no prior experience with playing guitar or plays some guitar, but does not read music. This course concentrates on basics such as reading simple music notation, music symbols, strumming techniques, playing rhythmically simple melodies with diversified fingering, sight reading and understanding simple key signatures, scales and the chords associated with those scales. Students will learn to play as an ensemble smoothly and rhythmically.
PREREQUISITE: No prior experience needed
INTERMEDIATE GUITAR CLASS
Grades 9-12
Students in this year-long class must be able to read notes in first position and have knowledge of open positions and barre chords. This guitar class emphasizes reading notes on the entire fingerboard and offers a thorough study of scales, harmony, and improvisation. The music includes contemporary, rock, blues, classical, and jazz repertoire that help prepare the student for solo and ensemble playing.
PREREQUISITE: Director approval
GUITAR ENSEMBLE
Grades 9-12
A small instrumental reading ensemble comprised of five to eight guitars which perform with bass and drums in a wide variety of jazz and pop styles. Students in the year-long will study concepts in a small performance group setting. The class offers a thorough study of improvisation, sight-reading, harmony, and theory.
PREREQUISITE: Audition
INTRODUCTION TO CHORUS
Grades 9-12
Introduction to Chorus is a year-long beginning choral ensemble to provide students the opportunity to experience the basics of singing in varying styles of music. Emphases will include, but are not limited to, music reading, proper vocal production, breathing, articulation, expression and phrasing, rhythm, intonation, blend, balance, tone quality, diction, etc. Students will have several opportunities for group performance, particularly in the spring semester.
PREREQUISITE: No prior experience needed.
SAINT ANDREW’S CHORALE
Grades 9-12
This full-year advanced concert chorus is designed to challenge the upper school singer with previous musical experience. It is a mixed (men’s and women’s) ensemble that performs a variety of musical styles and participates in on and off campus performances, including District and State Choral Festivals.
PREREQUISITE: By audition only.
ALL-AMERICAN SINGERS
GRADES 11 – 12
This full-year select choral ensemble performs music of varying styles, from classical and jazz to popular and Broadway with staging and choreography. Members are also required to perform with the Saint Andrew’s Chorale. The All-Americans perform throughout the school and surrounding community for various civic and religious organizations, in addition to participating in District and State Choral Festivals. Members are expected to be students of exemplary musicianship, dedication, and character.
PREREQUISITE: By audition only.
MUSIC THEORY/ MUSIC THEORY AP (Not Offered in 2010-2011)
Grades 11-12
This full-year course is offered to students wishing to learn how to read, write, and compose music using traditional music theory techniques. Students enrolled in AP Music Theory are required to take the Music Theory Advanced Placement Examination in May.
PREREQUISITE: Departmental approval for AP Music Theory only.
PERFORMING ARTS: THEATRE and DANCE
DRAMA: HISTORY AND PERFORMANCE I (Fall Only)
Grades 9-12
This fall semester course teaches the student proper audience etiquette and theatre terminology and offers a sampling of works from the theatre, such as Lysistrata, Medea and Everyman. The class attends at least one play per quarter. The text used is Comedy: A Critical Anthology. The class also explores the different acting styles through monologues and scene work. Professional actors are invited to teach master classes. Tests are given on terminology and literature. Other major grades include monologues and scene work. Additional work on chapel scenes may be required.
Drama: History and Performance II (Spring ONLY)
Grades 9-12
This semester course is designed to be a continuation of the Fall Drama course. It requires more reading and examines the influences of historical events on the playwrights (i.e., McCarthy/The Crucible). Plays to be read include Moilere, Oscar Wilde and contemporary playwrights. Acting styles are examined through observation and experimentation. Professional actors are invited to teach master classes. Tests on literature and terminology will be required as well as prepared audition monologues. Students will also attend a playwriting workshop and submit a short play for evaluation.
DRAMA: HISTORY AND PERFORMANCE III (FALL ONLY)
Grades 10-12
This semester course will focus more on the history of events that produced particular plays. The performance component will be more advanced monologues (including college auditions) and scene work, playwriting and a directing unit. Acting for the camera will be one of the components.
PREREQUISITE: Drama I
DRAMA: HISTORY AND PERFORMANCE IV (SPRING ONLY)
Grades 10-12
This semester will focus on more advanced styles of acting and will include a scriptwriting and directing for the camera component.
PREREQUISITE: Drama II
STAGECRAFT I
Grades 10-12 or Teacher Permission
This semester course, offered to 10th through 12th grade students, is designed to develop a creative atmosphere for the stage technician. The object of this course is to teach fundamental design techniques as well as the importance of incorporating the human element into the working design. Included in the curriculum is the design and the construction of a set or sets for the various theatrical productions given by the Department of Performing Arts. This course may be used to fulfill either a Performing Arts or Visual Arts requirement.
STAFECRAFT II
Grades 10-12
This semester course is designed to increase the depth of knowledge and apply more advanced techniques to all areas learned in Stagecraft I.
PREREQUISITE: Stagecraft I
Stagecraft III and IV
Grades 11-12
Each of these courses will be taught in conjunction with Stagecraft I. The advanced students would be encouraged to develop the skills they have learned in Stagecraft I to explore a specialized component in depth. With the instructor’s approval they would choose a specific element of Stagecraft, i.e. lighting, sound, costume, sets and learn advanced design techniques. These designs would be implemented by the basic students under the advanced students' stewardship for a mainstage production.
PREREQUISITE: 2 semesters of Stagecraft or instructor approval.
For all of these courses, we would provide our theatre students with an in depth exploration in their field of interest while showing colleges the extent of their passion.
Dance
Grades 9-12
This semester course will cover history of dance and a description of the different types of dance. The course would incorporate four different disciplines and it would spend an equal amount of time on each. The students will learn ballet, jazz, modern dance, and hip-hop. There would be a culminating performance at the end of the semester.
VISUAL ARTS
Foundations in Art – Grades 9-12
Design – Grades 9-12
Graphic Design – 9-12
Drawing – Grades 9-12
Sculpture – Grades 9-12
Painting – Grades 10-12
Printmaking – Grades 10-12
Drawing Honors – Grades 10-12
Advanced Sculpture Honors – Grades 10-12
Photography I: Pinhole to Pixels – Grades 10-12
Photography II: Beyond Photography – Grades 10-12
IB Visual Art SL – Grade 11
Portfolio Honors – Grades 11-12
Studio Art AP – Grades 11-12
Art History AP – Grades 11-12
Stagecraft I – Grades 10-12
Department of Visual Arts
The Visual Arts Department celebrates the creative spirit, instilling in students essential skills in developing intellectual seeing. The Department strives to expand students’ abilities to distinguish and appreciate the arts as a historical reflection of humankind’s advancements, values and cultures. It is crucial to recognize and understand the creative endeavors and achievements of other artists and art forms, and be able to explain why an artwork is vital as an expressive effort. In building confidence in their intellectual, technical and creative abilities, students discover greater insight in viewing and analyzing the world around them.
The goals of the Department are designed to compel students to think in a creative manner while expanding their range of experience. Courses include instruction in studio media, methods, theory, art history and appreciation. The Visual Arts easily relate to all other academic areas. While science, math, and history supply the facts; the arts supply the reaction and interpretation. Through intellectual awareness of the Visual Arts, students have a more complete understanding of the human soul and condition.
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES
- To develop students’ appreciation and understanding of the Visual Arts.
Students are lead into the realm of creative expression by exploring and expanding awareness of their artistic potential and the artistic accomplishments of others. Understanding that art is intentional, not accidental, is crucial to the study of the creative process. Exploring creativity as a solely human endeavor helps one to recognize why a work of art is vital as an expressive effort.
- To develop students’ aesthetic sensibilities.
Response to an artwork is based on personal and intellectual experience. Understanding the aesthetic properties, allows students to develop informed perceptions.
Sensory Properties: ways the artist uses the elements of design - line, shape, space, value, texture, color and form, stimulating the senses of sight and touch.
Formal Properties: ways the artist uses the principles of design to organize the elements of design making all parts of the composition work together.
Technical Properties: ways the artist uses media, tools and techniques in the creation of an artwork.
Expressive Properties: qualities that create an emotional response from the viewer. Ideas of social criticism, religion, moods of tension, relaxation, and sadness are created through color, metaphor, symbolism or design.
- To expose students to the history of art.
As with the study of literature, history, science and math, the study of art instills an understanding of the world, both past and present. If seen as a reflection of the ideas and events of the time, art proves invaluable as a window to the past. Awareness of the cultural, political, and social climate of the period gives insight to the motivation of the artist. Understanding the elements and principles of design, and compositional properties expands the ability to draw conclusions about an artwork. Without background knowledge, one cannot expect to successfully comprehend why an artwork is considered great.
- To cultivate students’ creative abilities and instill respect for the creative abilities of others.
Practice and mastery of technique, media, and concept are vital in developing skills that allow one to design creative modes of expression. Through close observation, knowledge is gained allowing the formation of acute perceptions of the surrounding world, thus giving the artist insight into the relationships of parts to the whole, both spatially and metaphysically. Armed with skill and experience, one can truly examine ways to use the imagination in the exploration of ideas and in the formation of unique expressions and creative interpretations.
- To develop in students a disciplined work ethic and foster independence in the exploration of media, technique and concept.
Success in any endeavor is evidenced by self-motivation and independence. Primed with basic knowledge and skill students design individual paths of exploration as they work to discover solutions to the problems encountered in their assignments.
- To inspire students to actively participate in the learning process.
The very nature of the Visual Arts curriculum necessitates active participation by all students. Lessons are designed to instill knowledge through experience. Creating art causes the development of observational and perceptual skills while leading the artist to analyze surroundings and situations with greater understanding.
FOUNDATIONS IN ART
Grades 10-12
This one-semester, entry-level course is required of all students taking art in the Upper School for the first time and must be completed before enrolling in other courses offered in the Visual Arts curriculum. Emphasis is placed on the formation of a strong visual arts vocabulary and the development of an appreciation and understanding of art and art history. This is accomplished through the study of the elements and principles of design, compositional properties, media and techniques, which are examined and discussed through the use of slides, art history texts, the Internet and direct observation of artwork. Drawing exercises and demonstrations are used to reinforce the material that has been covered. Students also research artists and their artworks compiling additional data, reinforcing and supplementing the information presented in the course.
DESIGN
Grades 9-12
This one-semester course challenges students to explore the impact the elements and principles of design and compositional theory have in the development of a successful composition. Visual thinking and creative problem solving are emphasized as the class builds on a foundation of artistic vocabulary and technical skills. Through a series of exercises, students explore the various properties inherent to each of the elements and principles of design. Students then apply their understanding in the development of effective compositions. In all assignments students explore creativity as a process beginning with a series of preliminary sketches, moving through various refinements, and ending up in the final form as a visual statement of the student's intention and motivation.
PREREQUISITE: Foundations in Art
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Grades 9-12
This one-semester course uses the computer as a medium of artistic expression. A strong focus is placed on visual thinking and the clear communication of ideas. Through the use of varied and engaging exercises, students learn typography, line art illustration, the use of digital photographs, and page layout. Students explore the use of Adobe Illustrator, In Design, and Adobe Photoshop. Basic design principles guide students in their creation of portraits, posters, and package designs. Course structure includes: concept development through sketches, skill set exercises, creative projects, and individual and group critiques employing aesthetic language.
PREREQUISITE: Foundations in Art
DRAWING
Grades 9-12
In this one-semester course the fundamentals of drawing are explored. Through direct observation students are taught to see, interpret, and record using visual assessment. Awareness of spatial relationships, proportion, and environmental influence is developed. Exploration proceeds analytically through line, plane, and volume with emphasis in dynamics of light and perception of tone. Students learn to form effective composition using the properties of pictorial organization. In addition, students work to develop techniques with emphasis on mastery and craftsmanship. Students are required to keep a sketchbook in which they do weekly homework drawings based on direct observation, along with preliminary sketches for each
PREREQUISITE: Foundations in Art
SCULPTURE
Grades 9-12
This one-semester course is designed to permit students an opportunity for in-depth exploration of sculptural vocabulary, various sculptural media, as well as traditional and alternative sculptural methods. The course work begins with a simple problem in developing a sculptural composition using multi-media materials. As the semester progresses, each new assignment increases in difficulty with emphasis on mastery of technique and craftsmanship. During the course the students will be given the opportunity to explore various sculptural techniques to include modeling in clay, wire structures, paper as a sculptural medium, wood construction, relief carving, casting methods and wood carving in the round.
PREREQUISITE: Foundations in Art
PAINTING (Spring Only)
Grades 10-12
This one-semester course introduces fundamental painting principles, methods, and material usage. Students who display a solid understanding of basic drawing skills are exposed to artistic expression through the painting medium. Emphasis is placed on construction, composition, paint handling, and color. Basic elements of design and compositional theory are examined with a focus on the study of light, form, and color to include the exploration of hue, value, intensity, and color harmony. Students develop perceptual and compositional abilities during the investigation of a wide range of visual problems presented through still-life and landscape. Course structure includes constructive critiques and class interaction at multiple levels.
PREREQUISITE: Drawing or Drawing Honors
PRINTMAKING (Fall Only)
Grades 10-12
This one-semester course is an introduction to various printmaking techniques. Fundamental drawing skills and technical background are developed as students explore different ways of creating printed art. Areas of study include the monotype, relief-printing techniques using the reduction process, intaglio methods such as etching, aquatint, and lift ground, and collagraph. Special emphasis is placed on the compositional structure and textural possibilities within each printmaking process.
PREREQUISITE: Foundations in Art
DRAWING HONORS
Grades 10-12
This year-long course is geared toward the serious art student. Students who have already begun to develop a strong understanding of spatial relationships, proportion, perspective, and environmental influence are engaged in exploring the art of drawing on a more analytical level. Assignments challenge students to formulate complex changes in reality through the use of observation, analysis, and compositional organization in order to enhance and add emphasis to their artwork. Mastery of both familiar and new techniques is stressed. Students experiment with effective ways of using graphite, conte crayon, charcoal, ink and scratchboard. Explorations in color are carried out second semester. Students are required to keep a sketchbook in which they do weekly homework drawings based on direct observation, along with preliminary sketches for each.
PREREQUISITE: Foundations in Art and departmental approval
ADVANCED SCULPTURE HONORS
Grades 10-12
This one year honors level course is designed for students who wish to pursue sculpture in greater depth. Students who demonstrate a well-developed understanding of spatial relationships, proportion, perspective, and environmental influence are challenged to explore the sculptural medium on a more analytical level. Assignments challenge students to make complex changes in reality through the use of observation, analysis, and compositional organization in order to enhance and add emphasis to their artwork. Throughout the year, the degree of difficulty increases with each assignment, beginning and ending with a found object assemblage sculpture. Mastery of both familiar and new techniques is stressed. The course consists of a series of sculptures done in various media and in various styles. Admission to this course is contingent upon approval of the Department Chair with the recommendation of the sculpture instructor.
PREREQUISITE: Foundations in Art and departmental approval
PHOTOGRAPHY I: Pinhole to Pixels
Grades 10-12
This one-semester course investigates the transition of traditional photographic practice to new digital technologies with emphasis on using photography as a means of artistic expression. Students explore the use of the elements and principles of design in establishing compelling photographic compositions that exhibit thoughtful and engaging images. Traditional film-based camera operations and darkroom techniques provide a physical and aesthetic groundwork for the introduction of digital photography. The course emphasizes the act of conscious seeing one’s physical world, and the constructive making of photographic compositions through the manual operation of the digital camera. Digital darkroom techniques are explored through the use of Adobe Photoshop. Course structure includes: shooting assignments, lab work, individual and group critiques employing aesthetic language, historical research, and collaborative projects, including weekly lab detail.
Students must supply their own digital camera with a minimum of 10 megapixels and user controlled shutter, aperture and focus settings. (See instructor prior to the start of the class for suggested cameras); 35mm SLR film cameras are supplied by the Visual Arts Department as needed.
PREREQUISITE: Foundations in Art
PHOTOGRAPHY II: BEYOND PHOTOGRAPHY
Grades 10-12
This one-semester course is an opportunity for students to build upon the technical controls and visual skills previously developed in photography by using the computer as an artistic tool. Students explore a variety of creative techniques for manipulating their own photographic images using Adobe Photoshop toward the creation of original works of art. Students are challenged with a variety of assignments developed to spur their creative visions and ideas as well as establish proficiency with the tools of digital media. Course structure includes: concept development beginning with strong photographic images, file organization, skill set exercises, creative projects, and individual and group critiques employing aesthetic language.
Students must supply their own digital camera with a minimum of 10 megapixels and user controlled shutter, aperture and focus settings. (See instructor prior to the start of the class for suggested cameras).
PREREQUISITE: Photography I
B VISUAL ART/ STANDARD LEVEL OPTION A or B
Grade 11
This two year course is open to students enrolled in the IB Diploma Programme. Specific content of the IB Visual Arts curriculum varies from student to student. Early in the course students gain practical skills by investigating experimental media practices while reviewing the elements and principles of design. Effective documentation practices, formal methods of art criticism and analysis are also developed.
Each student designs an independent path of study based on investigation of historical and contempory artworks, media, and cultures and on connection of themes and concepts they encounter. Students learn to move their investigation beyond the research materials supplied in class to more extensive research into other resources available through outside organizations, museums, libraries, cultural centers, etc. Studio works grow from the written and visual research and experimentation with media and technique. Students also engage in learning to develop and articulate analysis of their own artworks and those of their peers while expanding their aesthetic language through group and one-on-one critiques.
Option A is designed for students who wish to concentrate on studio practice in visual arts. Students will produce Investigation Workbooks to support, inform, develop and refine studio work through sustained contextual, visual and critical investigation.
Option B is designed for students who wish to concentrate on contextual, visual and critical investigation in visual arts. In their Investigation Workbooks students will explore fully an integrated range of ideas within a contextual, visual and critical framework and produce studio work based on their visual and written investigation.
PREREQUISITE: Foundations in Art and one semester of applied arts or demonstration of proficiency in a specific medium of expressions with approval by the Visual Arts Department
PORTFOLIO HONORS
Grades 11-12
This year-long course is offered to advanced students who would like the challenge of developing their personal artistic vision by exploring the creative process in a more diverse manner. The course work roughly follows the guidelines established by the Studio AP program with the exception that the students are not expected to submit a portfolio to the Advanced Placement Examination Board. Specific exercises and assignments are given to help students develop mastery of both familiar and new media and techniques. As the year progresses, students are expected to move toward independence as they work to establish a personal vision in their artwork. This course allows students to create a collection of works for a portfolio.
PREREQUISITE: Drawing Honors and departmental approval.
STUDIO ART AP
Grades 11-12
This year-long course is open to advanced students interested in assembling a portfolio of artwork for application to college or to those who wish to explore the creative process in a more in-depth manner. All students taking this course must submit their portfolio to the Advanced Placement Examination Board for evaluation. The class meets a minimum of five hours a week with additional class time required. Initially, the instructor guides students in their work. Works are created in the studio and at home concurrently. Regular critiques are a vital part of the course and assist the students as they progress through the assignments toward the completion of their portfolio.
PREREQUISITE: Drawing Honors and departmental approval.
ART HISTORY AP
Grades 11-12
AP Art History is a chronological survey of architecture, painting, sculpture, and photography of the western tradition and selected works of a variety of cultures from beyond the European tradition. The sequential presentation of the artwork studied in the course begins in the prehistoric period and ends with post-modernism. The text Art History by Marilyn Stockstad is supplemented by many other texts, primary sources and contemporary criticisms. Throughout the year, specific works of art and architecture from China, India, Japan, South-America, Meso-America, Australia, and Africa are introduced so that students can gain a deeper understanding of the ideas and concepts that unite the art of these diverse cultures and time periods with the western tradition. Central to the Art History curriculum is the development and practice of clear writing skills and use of the language of art analysis. Visual literacy is developed through daily slide presentations of art works and class discussions. Written assignments are required of all students in the form of short research papers and comparative essays done in and out of class. All students are required to take the Advanced Placement Exam.
PREREQUISITE: Instructor and departmental approval
STAGECRAFT I
Grades 10-12 or Teacher Permission
This semester course, offered to 10th through 12th grade students, is designed to develop a creative atmosphere for the stage technician. The object of this course is to teach fundamental design techniques as well as the importance of incorporating the human element into the working design. Included in the curriculum is the design and the construction of a set or sets for the various theatrical productions given by the Department of Performing Arts. This course may be used to fulfill either a Performing Arts or Visual Arts requirement.
> 
Media Player