Fine & Performing Arts

Students in the band core will play one of the instruments in the woodwind, brass, or percussion section. Music theory and music history will be included in the course of study. Prior band experience is not required.  

Students become literate in the language of dance as a means of communication and self-expression and as a way of responding to the expression of others.  Emphasis will be on classical dance (ballet) working toward choreography and interpretive dance.  Prior dance experience is not required. 

Students selected for piano performance will be instructed on a daily basis as a group in the piano laboratory.  Traditional methods of instruction will be utilized.  Students will also study music theory and composition as well as standard piano literature.  Prior piano instruction is not required. 

Students in the string orchestra core will learn to play one of the following orchestral string instruments: violin, viola, cello, string bass.  Students will learn to play by the traditional way, using a well-known and proven string method book.   Music theory and music history will be included in the course of study.  Prior strings experience is not required. 

Theatre Arts is a sequential program that includes the study of the subtleties of stage performance, technical work, authentic costume design and stage makeup, character development, and theatre etiquette. The program includes the acquisition of skills in verbal and non-verbal communication, vocal variety, public speaking, oral interpretation, characterization, and improvisation. 

Art students grow in their ability to create, describe, interpret, evaluate, and respond to work in visual arts. They learn to make choices that strengthen communication of their ideas.  Through the diversity of skills acquired, higher-level thinking and creative problem solving are promoted. 

The vocal department provides students with knowledge of good vocal health and proper singing techniques.  Students are encouraged to develop skills to sing as a soloist and as a member of an ensemble.  Music theory training enables students to become independent musicians and performers.