Drama: Dynamic drama productions rival competitive sports as a
draw for students' after school time. Drama includes the opportunity to try out for parts
and directing roles, set building, and development of lighting skills. It promotes
students' confidence to do well in front of their peers and families at six productions
throughout the year.
Sixth grade drama is offered in twelve-week rotation periods and emphasizes group process and
problem solving rather than polished performances. Drama class is a full year elective in
the seventh and eighth grades and meets for 45 minutes daily during school hours. Seventh
graders learn by the "explore mode" of presentational theater, such as Readers
Theater, Poetry Theater, and Collective Creations. The eighth grade course in Acting
Styles emphasizes group process through theater, ensemble work, pantomime, and realistic
scenes.
Orchestra:
Both classical and jazz orchestra are offered, emphasizing the mastery of note learning as
well as improvisational play. Sixth grade students with no previous experience are
welcome. Instruction is provided in violin, viola, cello, and bass. Intermediate orchestra
is offered for sixth grade students with string experience. Advanced orchestra is divided
into two levels: seventh grade, where students begin to perfect playing skills, and eight
grade, which is the highest level of instruction. Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Vivaldi, as
well as jazz artists Thelonious Monk and Duke Ellington are presented in a performance
based orchestra.
Band: Band introduces students with no previous experience to a
variety of instruments. Once the appropriate techniques are learned, students are promoted
to intermediate band. As students begin to master their instruments, they are then
promoted to advanced band.
Chorus: Sixth graders begin chosen studies with proper vocal
techniques, music theory with an emphasis on sight reading, and performing music in unison
and two parts. Seventh grade intermediate chorus emphasizes vocal techniques, music
theory, and sight reading on a more advanced level. Placement within chorus is determined
by the vocal range of the student. Eighth graders participate in a Treble Chorus and Mixed
Chorus. Both of these classes are full year and by audition only.
