Students will investigate various forms of two-dimensional art within drawing and painting methods. Units and projects will combine inspiration from historical, cultural, and contemporary artworks with the development of technical skills and concepts. The basic elements of art, design, and color theory will be emphasized in classroom lectures, written assignments, discussions, and critiques. Lessons will include a strong foundation of observational skills, including perspective, landscapes, still life, and portraiture. Artworks will be created in a variety of mediums to explore and advance the students’ drawing and painting skills.

Students will investigate various forms of two-dimensional art within drawing and painting methods. Units and projects will combine inspiration from historical, cultural, and contemporary artworks with the development of technical skills and concepts. The basic elements of art, design, and color theory will be emphasized in classroom lectures, written assignments, discussions, and critiques. Lessons will include a strong foundation of observational skills, including perspective, landscapes, still life, and portraiture. Artworks will be created in a variety of mediums to explore and advance the students’ drawing and painting skills.

Students will investigate various forms of two-dimensional art within drawing and painting methods. Units and projects will combine inspiration from historical, cultural, and contemporary artworks with the development of technical skills and concepts. The basic elements of art, design, and color theory will be emphasized in classroom lectures, written assignments, discussions, and critiques. Lessons will include a strong foundation of observational skills, including perspective, landscapes, still life, and portraiture. Artworks will be created in a variety of mediums to explore and advance the students’ drawing and painting skills.

From simple presentations to big-budget blockbusters like "Avatar," the world of visual representation is leaning sharply toward 3D. As students move on to college and into their professional lives, basic skills in 3D modeling and manipulation will prepare them for an increasingly digital world and give them a more marketable skill in many career fields. This course covers the basics of 3D-object creation, texturing, lighting, and rendering with some basic animation concepts. This is not an animation course, nor a course in creating anthropomorphic models (though students may choose to attempt it). Students spend much of their time learning mesh modeling techniques using Blender, including how to create good topology, how to model from blueprints or technical drawings, some basic physics simulations, and how to prepare a model to 3D print correctly. Once they have mastered the basics, students move on to learning about materials and shaders, lighting and composition by focusing primarily on how to create photorealistic materials for use in artistic renders, architectural previsualization, video game environments or compositing with photography. The course is project-based, and students complete four separate 3D projects moving from basic to more complex (including sculpting and physics simulation). Along the way, students will do a short unit on 3D printing where they get to print something they have modeled.

If you’ve ever been interested in making video games or photorealistic architectural renderings, this course provides students the foundation to do just that. 3D Modeling II is more self-directed than 3D Modeling I, but will still have additional guidance, periodic homework and four foundation units that will advance skills in mesh topology, lighting, materials, and compositing. These units will apply to any of the topics students choose for a final project, and lessons will be tailored to those needs (with specific resources designed to help you apply them to your work). Evaluation of progress will be based on concrete evidence of progress and learning, ability to follow a structured learning plan, how deeply students dive into their subject area, and demonstrated proficiency by meeting established learning goals. To that end, students produce a proposal and a detailed learning plan for how they will achieve the project they intend to create (with guidance and direction). Examples of areas to focus on are interior modeling (following blueprints, interior design, architecture, environment - focus on design principles); landscape modeling (modeling from life, particle instancing, environment, advanced lighting with HDRIs, topographic modeling, landscape design, micro-displacements, the potential for photo scanning or photogrammetry); character design (for animation or game to be rigged, for logo, expressive traits and physiognomy, sculpt-retopo workflow, possible print); keyframe animation (illustrative visuals like charts and graphs, learning design, process illustration, herd/swarm simulation, lattice deforms); character animation (rigging or using pre-rigged model, expressive action, environment interaction, using animation cycles for game design, animating for speech, shape keys, camera tracking driving animation); physics simulation (hard-body sim, using the game engine, destructive environments, may include soft-body simulation); cloth simulation; and fluid simulation. Can be used to simulate tsunamis, water-flow, building collapse), or sculpt and retopo (game assets, artistic renders, will include advanced materials and topology).

The student explores creating a role for the stage with a specific focus on the challenges of acting for the camera. They apply the tools of an actor (mind, body, voice) to a variety of performances. An actor then learns how to critique their own performance and that of others. They will examine the three major rehearsal systems of the last 150 years: Stanislavski’s Method, The Meisner Technique, and viewpoints. The application of these systems of research, vocal skills, and physical techniques will guide the creation of a solo performance. The student will then navigate the rehearsal process of a two-person scene. In the end, the student will create a demo reel and audition set (monologues and a song) so they are prepared to connect to the professional world of the stage and screen.

The course is designed to explore and build techniques, skills, theories, and principles related to color theory and design. Students will have the opportunity to fully explore, expand, and master their talents and abilities in drawing, painting, and design. The elements of art, design, and color theory will be emphasized in classroom lectures, written assignments, discussions, and critiques. Lessons will focus on the combination of color theory, and two-dimensional design elements. Using a wide variety of traditional and nontraditional materials and methods, students are encouraged to develop their own design vocabulary and repertoire of practical techniques. In addition to introducing formal design strategies, the course emphasizes content from historical, cultural, and contemporary artworks.

This course explores and leads to mastering techniques, skills, theories, and principles related to color theory and design. Students have the opportunity to fully explore, expand, and master their talents and abilities in drawing, painting and design. The elements of art, design, and color theory will be emphasized in classroom lectures, written assignments, discussions and critiques. Lessons will focus on the combination of color theory and two-dimensional design elements. Using a wide variety of traditional and nontraditional materials and methods, students are encouraged to develop their own design vocabulary and repertoire of practical techniques. In addition to introducing formal design strategies, the course emphasizes content from historical, cultural, and contemporary artworks. Students will work toward the development of a comprehensive portfolio that may meet the requirements for entry into college-level classes. Students learn to seek out creative problems that are interesting and challenging and use goal setting, informed decision making, and problem solving skills to pursue their own artistic interest in an informed way. Students are responsible for demonstrating mastery at using the elements of art to organize the principles of design in their work. A minimum of 24 works will be completed for the College Board’s exam.

The course explores three-dimensional forms through a variety of media that emphasizes individual expression, deepening artistic practice and development of mastery in specific areas of art-making, including concept, composition, drawing, and design. Students will build on existing art-making skills as they further develop their personal artistic voice, problem-solving skills and understanding of the elements of art and principles of design. Students will engage in individual and peer critiques and write reflectively about their art-making experiences in order to expand their visual thinking, develop skills, and participate in critical analysis. Students will investigate all three components of the AP College Board portfolio, which include quality, concentration, and breadth. Students will be experimenting with different media and processes, along with developing mastery in multiple concepts, compositions, and execution of ideas. They will choose their work from projects that promote individuality and diversity within their portfolio. Their portfolio will be submitted to the College Board for assessment.

In this two-semester course, students with advanced skills in the rudiments of music are encouraged to enroll. The prerequisite is at least one semester of either Music Theory I or Music Theory II. Students will study materials beyond the scope of basic scales and key signatures and will begin to learn about four-part harmony and the analysis of musical scores. The students also will broaden their vocabulary with regard to musical forms and compositional styles. Additionally, the students will continue to develop individual skills in ear training and sight singing which are a portion of the AP Music Theory Exam.

The student will learn the history, techniques, and creative talents of filmmakers. The course uses the disciplines of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to examine the diverse talents of filmmakers. Using examples throughout film history, the student will explore major trends in the art of film: screenplays, cinematography, direction, music and sound, acting, and direction. Specific study of the Oscar-winning films in each category throughout film history will demonstrate best practices.

The student will learn the history, artistry, and creative talents of videogame makers. This course uses the creative disciplines of videogame development to examine the diverse talents and career paths of game makers. Using examples throughout videogame history, the student will explore major trends and breakthroughs in the game genres: casual, console history, action, RPG, FPS, and simulation. Topics include character design, level design, user interface, storytelling, and pathfinding. This is a deep, analytical exploration of the industry and individual games so students can develop the skills to appreciate and work in the industry.

The students will explore the history of the Broadway musical, where art and commerce combine in an American artform. Starting from the current Broadway season, the students will then trace the origins of musical theatre. From Showboat (1928), students will examine how text, music, and dance have combined to tell stories. They will see the pattern in musical history of how new and groundbreaking work emerges, then is imitated, refined, and then responded to in another new and groundbreaking work. This development, through the last 90 years, has created impressive works: Oklahoma, The Sound of Music, West Side Story, A Chorus Line, Rent, and Hamilton.

The student will discover the center of the theatre world as they travel to New York to experience the magic of Broadway. During the first week, the student will explore current Broadway productions and their theatrical impact. During week two, we will spend five days in New York, see five Broadway shows, and participate in workshops with theatre professionals. The final week, we will create a cabaret of stories and performances to share our trip with our community.

Students in chorus will learn the principles of choral singing through rehearsing and performing a variety of musical selections from classical to popular styles. Emphasis is placed upon the development of correct vocal technique, music literacy and ear training to improve overall musicianship. Chorus meets twice in a five day rotation. The chorus will perform two or three times per year.

The student will delve into the process of design for the stage. Each student will receive an overview of all the design disciplines: costumes, sets, lights, and props. They will then be able to dive deeper into the discipline of their choice. Students will travel the steps of the design process. The class emphasizes the opportunity for designers to conceptualize and bring those ideas into reality on the stage. The students will be responsible for collaborating in creating the world of the spring play.

Students will serve as writers, actors, and designers for a production which will be presented at a public performance.Beginning from a single word as a theme, the student will create a piece of theatre from scratch. From writing dialogue and through the rehearsal process, students will prepare as an actor using the tools of words, actions, and their imagination. The students will also collaborate with the instructor to create the other theatrical elements: costumes, props, sets, and sounds.

In this course, students learn the basic principles of digital photography and explore the photographic process including pre-visualization, taking images, and adjusting and manipulating digital images. Students will investigate how to use photography to tell a story and will explore narrative both through individual images, series, and incorporation of text. This course will emphasize learning the design principles, composition, and fundamental history and theory of photographic media. Students will approach various subjects and narratives to create images and projects that are personal and expressive.

The student will learn the process of direction from first encounters with the script through performance notes. Beginning with script analysis, the student follows how the blueprints for the production are provided by the playwright. Attention will be paid to the conducting of auditions and casting, table work, blocking, and polishing rehearsals. The student will become familiar with the role of the director in production meetings and as the consultant on design decisions. They will create a research and prompt book ready for producing.

Drumline is an activity that fosters teamwork, self-discipline, problem-solving, and the desire to set and achieve challenging goals. In this intensive, we will create a drumline and percussion ensemble that composes, practices, and performs original music tailored to the strengths, skills, and personalities of the class. Along the way, we will learn warmups and exercises designed to establish listening skills and ensemble cohesion across a range of percussion instruments. Students will learn how to match one’s playing with a group; how to use dynamics, meter, rhythm, and tempo in a musical performance; and how to play in a range of indoor and outdoor settings, including a final performance on stage. Depending on the size and background of the group, we may include mallet percussion, handheld percussion, and drum set in the ensemble. All levels of musical ability are welcome, but no previous experience is required for this course.

This course is designed to give students the opportunity to discover, appreciate and acquire knowledge of the history of painting from the Paleolithic era to contemporary works. Students will be creating artworks that parallel the time periods they are studying. They will explore historical and contemporary processes from Italian frescos and egg tempera to impressionism and mixed media. Students will better understand how the process of painting has evolved over centuries by creating the painting processes of the time.

The student will develop as an actor using improvisational games. Starting from the exercises of Viola Spolin and Augusto Boal, the participants will learn the skills of improvisation and the key concept of "yes, and..." Other topics will include comedic improv, character development exercises, long-form improv, and Commedia Dell Arte. The intensive will conclude with a public performance demonstrating these improvisation forms.

The student will discover the center of the British theatre world as they travel to London to experience the magic of theatre. In addition to traveling to London to see shows on the West End and at The Globe Theater, we will also travel to Stratford on Avon and see productions at the Royal Shakespeare Company. After 10 days of travel, we will create a showcase of stories and performances to share our trip with our community

Over the last 120 years, plays have expressed the human condition through a period of rapid societal change. The class will explore how class, war, gender, and race have been presented on stage. The class will also focus on experimental theatre forms throughout this time: expressionism, surrealism, and absurdism. Finally, the students will see how these stories and methods of theatrical production reflected their time.

Through the study of digital and interactive media and its application in information technology, students will analyze and assess current and emerging technologies while designing and creating multimedia projects that engage the viewer. Introduction to fundamental concepts, practices, and theories of digital art production. Topics include integration of traditional design, color, and compositional principles with contemporary digital tools. This course covers concepts, methods, and techniques of creating digital design, animations, motion graphics, and video production. It surveys a range of traditional design methods and principles as well as explores the art of storytelling through the use of storyboarding and implementing various software and contemporary techniques.

This course is a study of Western Art music, beginning with writers and music from the Middle Ages through the 19th Gradeth century. Students will have multiple listening assignments, beginning with Gregorian chant through excerpts from major symphonic and vocal works Emphasis will be placed on the lives and writings of several prominent composers whose music is still played today. Another course component is the advancement of music literacy through the practice and performance on the alto recorder and the ukulele. Students may be able to perform at the end of the semester with the entire class as an instrumental ensemble.

This course is a study of American music history and appreciation from the beginning of the 20th century through contemporary times. Students will survey the introduction of folk music, country, blues, and jazz into popular American culture. Emphasis is placed on listening and analyzing excerpts of various styles of contemporary music and on learning information about key artists and performers in different musical genres. The second component of the course is the advancement of music literacy through the practice and performance on such instruments as the ukulele, the guitar, and/or on the piano. Eventually students will perform in various ensemble combinations, and then offer a public performance at the end of the semester.

This course will survey the actual mechanics behind music. The course will begin with scales and modes, key signatures, diatonic and chromatic harmony, and chord analysis. From there, students will move to four-part harmony, two-part counterpoint, and basic musical forms. Emphasis will be placed on students’ abilities to create and compose small selections, complete listening assignments, dictate melodies and rhythms, and aurally recognize scales and chords. An aural exam and a written exam will be given at the end of the semester. Students should have taken the first semester Music Theory Course or have a basic knowledge of elementary music theory.

This class will focus on how a community of artists comes together to create theatre. Students will learn the design process, with special emphasis placed on communication to an audience. The students will design elements for a production targeting a specific style and audience. The class will then collaborate taking on one or more roles in the production process to plan, rehearse and execute a public performance.

This course is an opportunity for students to explore the history of rock and roll drummers, and to learn rhythm, drumming, and performance techniques. Students will form a percussion ensemble that will learn to play music by reading rhythmic parts to selected songs. Students will also be given assignments in composition, creating selections that only involve percussion instruments. Additionally, each student will be assigned short and long research assignments on artists, music, and drum history to be presented to the class. A performance by the students will conclude the intensive.

This course provides an opportunity for students to explore the fundamentals of three-dimensional design and develop an artistic appreciation of sculptural artworks. Lessons and projects will be tied to discussions of historical topics and art in modern societies. Students will explore a variety of methods, including assemblage, casting, carving, and modeling with diverse sculpture mediums.

This course provides an opportunity for students to explore the fundamentals of three-dimensional design and develop an artistic appreciation of sculptural artworks. Lessons and projects will be tied to discussions of historical topics and art in modern societies. Students will explore a variety of methods, including assemblage, casting, carving, and modeling with diverse sculpture mediums.

This course provides an opportunity for students to explore the fundamentals of three-dimensional design and develop an artistic appreciation of sculptural artworks. Lessons and projects will be tied to discussions of historical topics and art in modern societies. Students will explore a variety of methods, including assemblage, casting, carving, and modeling with diverse sculpture mediums.

The Show Choir Intensive allows students to study and combine singing with synchronized movement. Students will rehearse chosen vocal selections to be sung and memorized while learning techniques involved in basic movement. The singing and the movement will initially be studied separately, and then combined to create a show modeled after performances that are given in show choir camps and competitions throughout the country. Students will spend class time observing show choirs in high schools and universities to analyze various aspects of performance. A performance by the students will be scheduled at the end of the intensive.

String Ensemble is a class designed for players who have experience on a stringed instrument and who are continuing to develop technical and musical proficiency. This is not a beginning class. Literature is carefully chosen from a variety of genres for its musical interest and technical value. Emphasis is placed on music literacy, independent musicianship, style, and expression as well as techniques of ensemble playing. Students perform in both large group and small group settings. Assessment includes periodic practice checks, comprehensive playing exams, and public performances. Class meets twice a week with an additional meeting for small group sectionals. Wednesday morning Chamber Strings serves as one of the class meetings.

The student will participate in mounting a fully produced play for public performances. In addition to casting from within the class, students will receive individual responsibilities like costumes, set, props, sound effects, lighting, and publicity. The class will then collaborate taking on one or more roles in the production process to plan, rehearse and execute a public performance.

To create a compelling performance students must apply the tools of an actor: words, action, and imagination. The camera creates an aesthetic distance for the audience. Therefore, the actor must apply these tools in a specific way. Students will craft performances, using the rehearsal process to evaluate their own work and the work of their peers. Students will synthesize these choices to film a range of individual and group performances.

The student explores creating a role for the stage. Specific focus on the challenges of Musical Theatre: understanding your voice, choosing the right audition material, and acting through song. They apply the tools of an actor (mind, body, voice) to a variety of performances. An actor then learns how to critique their own performance and that of others. The application of these systems of research, vocal skills, and physical techniques will guide the creation of a solo performance. The student will then navigate the rehearsal process of a duet. In the end, the student will create a demo reel and audition set of contrasting songs. They will be prepared to connect to the professional world of the stage and screen.

The student explores creating a role for the stage. They start by using the tools of an actor (mind, body, voice) and apply these tools to a variety of Shakespeare performances. An actor then learns how to critique their own performance and that of others. The students will explore the language of Shakespeare and how to bring meaning and life to it in performance. The student will then navigate the rehearsal process of a two person scene. In the end, the entire class will perform a condensed version of a Shakespeare play for a public audience.

The student will learn the history, techniques, and creative talents of filmmakers. The course uses the disciplines of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to examine the diverse talents of filmmakers. Using examples throughout film history, the student will explore major trends in the art of film: Screenplays, Cinematography, Direction, Music and Sound, Acting, and direction. Specific study of the Oscar winning films in each category throughout film history will demonstrate best practices.

The student will learn the history, techniques, and creative talents of the animated film. From its earliest days, film has used animation to test the limits of what is possible. Starting with early experiments by Ub Iwerks, Max Fleischer, and Winsor McCay which led to advances in the new art of cinema. Then the broad cultural development by Walt Disney in feature films and Warner Brothers in the animated short film honed the craft into an artform all its own. Students will follow these keyframes through to Pixar and other digital advances. The student will focus on the unique advantages of animation as a storytelling mode.

The student will learn the history, techniques, and creative talents of filmmakers. The course begins by exploring how early filmmakers used early 20th century techniques to create other worlds. Using examples throughout film history, the student will explore major trends in the genre: Imaginary Places, Creature Features, Magic and Dragons, Dystopia, Superheroes, and Aliens. Specific study of allegory in science fiction will highlight the cultural relevance of these works. Specific attention will be paid to the techniques of special effects used in creating science fiction and fantasy worlds.

The student will learn the history, artistry, and creative talents of video game makers. The course uses the creative disciplines of video game development to examine the diverse talents and career paths of game makers. Using examples throughout video game history, the student will explore major trends and breakthroughs in the game genres: Casual, Console History, Action, RPG, FPS, and Simulation. Topics include character design, level design, user interface, storytelling, and pathfinding. This is a deep analytical exploration of the industry and individual games so students can develop the skills to appreciate and work in the industry.

The student will delve into the process of designing and building costumes for the stage. Each student will receive an overview of the tools of costume design. They will then take two costumes from concept to reality. Students will travel the steps of the design process to pull a costume from stock elements to reveal character. Then the students will create a costume from scratch using patterns, fabric, and machines to build their unique vision of a character.

The student will delve into the process of design for the stage. Each student will receive an overview of the design process. Students will learn the tools and software of the modern lighting designer. They will also explore the newer discipline of projection mapping. The class emphasizes the opportunity for designers to conceptualize and bring those ideas into reality on the stage. The students will be responsible for a lighting and motion graphics performance.

The student will delve into the process of design for the stage. Emphasis will be placed on creating the world of the play. In addition to designing stage environments, students will craft props needed for that world. Students will travel the steps of the design process. The class emphasizes the opportunity for designers to conceptualize and bring those ideas into reality on the stage. The students will be responsible for collaborating in creating the world of the mainstage production.

The student will learn the process of direction from first encounters with the script through performance notes. Beginning with script analysis, the student follows how the blueprints for the production are provided by the playwright. Attention will be paid to the conducting of auditions and casting, table work, blocking, and polishing rehearsals. The student will become familiar with the role of the director in production meetings and as consultant on design decisions. They will create a research and prompt book ready for producing.

Theatre is often created to entertain, sometimes it also seeks to examine and expose the culture. The student will read works of political theatre and analyze the effect of these works on society. Authors will include August Wilson, Augusto Boal, Luis Valdez, Caryl Churchill, Anna Deavere Smith, and Maria Irene Fornes. These playwrights specifically address issues of race, gender, and class in an effort to The thrust of the class will be an investigation of the question; Does theatre simply hold up a mirror to life or can it create change?

Students will discover the rich history of theatre throughout Asia. The dance forms of Japan Noh, and Kabuki developed as a response to more formal religious theatre. In India, theatrical experiences in dance and puppet theatre present the epic tales of Ramayana. The music and dance of Jīngjù, or Beijing Opera developed in tandem over the last two centuries. The rich cultural palette of these diverse art forms will expand a student’s concept of what is possible in theatre.

In this course, students gain an introduction to the history of contemporary public art and become familiar with the current discourses surrounding public art, art intervention, and social critique of space. They have the opportunity to create a series of their own public interventions dealing with site-specificity, pedestrian psychology, and the politics of place. This course will be an opportunity for students to engage with techniques used by artists working in public space. Students also will learn how to analyze public space from social, architectural, and political perspectives. Lastly, students will execute a series of individual and group interventionist experiments in the conditions of architectural place, the contours shaping pedestrian mental experience, and the possibilities of addressing political issues through interventionist, socially engaged public art.