Fine Arts
Human beings are set apart from all other of God’s creatures in their ability to appreciate and create beauty in the world around them. The ability to imitate life in drama, to create the beauty of images and symbols in art, and to play or sing the melodious and harmonic sounds that are music remind us of every aspect of creation. A well-rounded student is someone who appreciates this beauty.
Our chorus performs a variety of music throughout the year ranging from Renaissance madrigals to Broadway show tunes. Chorus is a co-curricular course that offers a broad range of opportunities for the experienced as well as novice choral singer. It focuses on the fundamentals of music, ear training, and singing in parts—all taught in an atmosphere that encourages individual growth and achievement.
A full year course, Advanced Placement Studio Art is designed for second-year, third-year and fourth-year students (by recommendation) with a strong foundation in art and an interest in completing a comprehensive portfolio for college application or the Advanced Placement Portfolio. Students will begin with a summer sketchbook assignment, review and refine the elements and principles of design, and develop skills using a variety of media as well as develop an independent concentration based on an in-depth exploration of a particular artistic concern. The student may choose to work on a portfolio focused on drawing, 2-D design or 3-D design. All third-year and fourth-year students are required to submit their portfolios for the AP Exam as well as submit a written artist’s statement.
• Chorus
• Instrumental Music and Ensemble
• Studio Art
• AP (Advanced Placement) Studio Art
• AP (Advanced Placement) Studio Art, 2-D or 3-D Design
* Participation in exra-curricular drama programs may satisfy Fine Arts graduation requirements.
The new music program will incorporate a strong contemporary flavor coupled with a deep respect for tradition throughout the course offerings which will include: classical, jazz, rock and other genres of music courses as demanded by instrumentation and player abilities. Specific courses may include:
Band – Open to all instruments, this class is for beginner to intermediate players.
Advanced Band – For those with significant performance experience this class will focus on more advanced technique and repertoire.
Guitar Ensemble – For guitarists and bass guitarists with beginner to advanced skills, this class will explore all aspects of this popular instrument and will cover repertoire from classical to rock.
Chamber Ensemble. For those with some experience in classical music, will explore both traditional chamber music and some more contemporary selections.
Music exploration – This course is for those with no prior music experience who would like to broaden their knowledge and explore their options toward performance and will include: listening, discussion and basic performance instruction. To meet 2-3 times a week.
Keyboard – For non-pianists who would like to gain some basic keyboard skills, this class will explore both traditional and contemporary approaches to the keyboard. To meet 2-3 times a week.
Students will be encouraged to participate in the Allstate and District music festivals.
