Performing Arts Courses

The Music of Theater

Course Description
The Music of Theater is a dynamic course that explores the rich history, cultural significance, and artistic impact of stage musicals. Students will journey through the evolution of musical theater, from its early roots to modern productions, analyzing key works, composers, and movements. Through the lens of music history, students will study how musical styles and societal trends shaped theatrical storytelling.

This course emphasizes practical application through vocal performance, acting techniques, and directing. Students will develop their stage presence, learn ensemble collaboration, and experiment with creative direction in a workshop environment. By engaging in analysis, performance, and production, students will gain an in-depth understanding of how music and theater combine to create impactful narratives.

Course Objectives

• Analyze the historical development of musical theater and its connections to broader music history.
• Perform songs and scenes from musicals, focusing on vocal technique, acting, and stage movement.
• Explore directing concepts, including script interpretation, casting, and staging.
• Understand the relationship between music, lyrics, and storytelling in stage productions.

Advanced Choir (Samueli Singers)

Grade Levels
10-12 (Auditioned)

Course Description
Advanced Choir is a premier auditioned ensemble designed for experienced singers in grades 10-12. This course is performance-focused, with students required to participate in in-class performances, main-stage productions, and community events. The choir performs a diverse repertoire spanning classical, jazz, pop, world music, and more, emphasizing vocal technique, musicality, and ensemble collaboration.

Students represent the school at on- and off-campus functions, including concerts, festivals, and community events, and participate in off-campus field trips to workshops and competitions. Dedication to rehearsal and performance excellence is mandatory, as this group serves as an ambassador for the school’s music program.

Course Objectives

• Refine advanced vocal techniques and ensemble skills.
• Perform a diverse repertoire with stylistic accuracy and expressiveness.
• Represent the school in in-class and main-stage performances, as well as off-campus events.
• Cultivate professionalism, leadership, and teamwork in a high-performing ensemble.

High School Choir (Choir Wolves)

Grade Levels
9-12 (Open Enrollment)

Course Description
High School Choir is a performance-based course open to all students in grades 9-12 who love to sing and want to improve their vocal skills. Students are required to participate in in-class performances and main-stage productions as part of their learning experience.

This welcoming ensemble focuses on building vocal technique, music literacy, and ensemble performance while exploring a variety of musical styles, including classical, pop, folk, and contemporary works. Students will work together to prepare for concerts and events throughout the school year, gaining confidence and developing their musical potential.

Course Objectives

• Develop vocal techniques, including tone production, breath control, and intonation.
• Build music literacy skills, including sight-reading and rhythmic accuracy.
• Perform as part of an ensemble in mandatory in-class and main-stage productions.
• Foster a love of singing and a sense of community through music.

Middle School Choir (Choir Pups)

Grade Levels
7-8 (Open Enrollment)

Course Description
Middle School Choir is a performance-focused course for students in grades 7-8 who love to sing or want to try it out for the first time. Students are required to participate in in-class performances and main-stage productions, which are integral to the learning experience.

This all-levels ensemble builds foundational vocal skills, including pitch accuracy, tone production, and music reading. Students will sing a variety of music, from folk songs to popular tunes, in a supportive and encouraging environment. Regular performances allow students to showcase their growth and creativity while developing confidence as performers.

Course Objectives

• Learn and develop basic vocal techniques and ensemble skills.
• Explore a variety of musical genres in a fun, inclusive environment.
• Perform in mandatory in-class and main-stage productions to demonstrate growth.
• Cultivate a love of singing and an appreciation for music.

Instrumental Band Lab (Piano/Guitar/Drums Cap 25)

Grade Levels
9-12

Course Description
Instrumental Band Lab is a performance-driven course where students learn the basics of piano, guitar, and drums and collaborate to form bands that prepare for in-class and main-stage performances. Participation in all performances is mandatory, as they are central to the course experience.

Students begin by developing foundational skills on each instrument, including chord progressions, rhythm patterns, and improvisation techniques. They are then grouped into bands to arrange and perform songs from various styles and time periods, emphasizing teamwork, creativity, and the joy of live performance.

Course Objectives

• Develop foundational skills on piano, guitar, and drums.
• Learn and apply basic music theory, including chords, rhythm, and melody.
• Collaborate in bands to arrange and perform music in mandatory in-class and main-stage performances.
• Build confidence and creativity through hands-on music-making and live performance.

Latin Orchestra (Cap 25)

Course Description
Latin Orchestra immerses students in the vibrant and dynamic musical traditions of Latin America. This high-energy ensemble course is open to all orchestral instruments, including strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Students will explore genres such as salsa, mariachi, cumbia, tango, and samba, focusing on the unique rhythms, melodies, and instrumentation that define these styles.

The course emphasizes ensemble collaboration, stylistic interpretation, and improvisation techniques. Students will also learn about the cultural and historical contexts of Latin music, gaining a deeper appreciation for its diversity and influence. Repertoire will include traditional and contemporary works, and students will have opportunities to arrange and perform their own compositions inspired by Latin styles.

Course Objectives

• Develop instrumental techniques and ensemble skills across all orchestral instruments within the context of Latin American musical traditions.
• Explore the cultural and historical significance of Latin music genres.
• Perform a variety of Latin repertoire, incorporating stylistic authenticity and improvisation.
• Cultivate an appreciation for the influence of Latin music in global culture.

Middle School Orchestra and Band (Cap 25)

Course Description
Middle School Orchestra provides young musicians with a comprehensive introduction to instrumental performance and ensemble playing. Open to all orchestral instruments—strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion—this course focuses on building foundational music skills, including note reading, rhythm, tone production, intonation, and ensemble collaboration.

Students will learn proper playing techniques for their chosen instruments while exploring a diverse repertoire of classical, folk, and contemporary works. The course emphasizes discipline, musical expression, and teamwork as students prepare for performances throughout the year. In addition to developing technical proficiency, students will gain a basic understanding of music theory, history, and ear training to enhance their overall musicianship.

Course Objectives

• Build fundamental playing techniques on all orchestral instruments in a supportive environment.
• Develop ensemble skills, including listening, balance, and following a conductor.
• Explore a variety of musical styles and historical periods through performance.
• Cultivate a lifelong appreciation for music and the joy of collaborative performance.

Music Industry Studio

Grades
9-12 (open enrollment)

Course Description
Music Industry Studio offers students an in-depth exploration of the music industry, blending historical study, career exploration, and hands-on application. Students will trace the evolution of the music industry, from its origins to the digital age, gaining insight into how technology, culture, and commerce have shaped music production and distribution.

Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of music industry careers, including both performance-based roles (such as recording artists, composers, and live performers) and non-performance roles (such as producers, engineers, managers, and marketers). Guest speakers, case studies, and collaborative projects will provide students with practical knowledge and industry connections.

The course culminates in a capstone project: a student-run recording studio experience. Working collaboratively, students will take on the roles necessary to manage a recording session—from planning and production to marketing and distribution—offering an authentic glimpse into the music business.

Course Objectives

• Examine the history of the music industry, identifying key innovations, trends, and influential figures.
• Analyze the roles and responsibilities of various careers in music, exploring pathways for personal interest and skill development.
• Develop an understanding of music production processes, including recording, editing, and mixing.
• Apply knowledge through the creation and management of a student-led recording studio project.

Music Appreciation

Grades
9-12 (Open Enrollment)

Course Description
Music Appreciation is a student-centered, discussion-based course that explores the impact, history, and cultural significance of music across genres and time periods. Designed for students of all musical backgrounds, this non-performance class encourages critical thinking and personal exploration of music through listening, analysis, and creative projects.

Students will have opportunities to shape the course content by selecting musical topics of interest, from classical to contemporary music, film scores to world music, and beyond. Through guided listening, historical context, and multimedia analysis, students will develop a deeper understanding of how music influences and reflects society.

Course Objectives

• Analyze music from various cultures, genres, and historical periods.
• Develop critical listening skills to recognize musical elements and structures.
• Explore the social, historical, and cultural impact of music.
• Engage in student-led discussions and projects based on personal musical interests.

Theater Club

This after-school program is dedicated to young artists who want to grow their stage presence, acting skills, movement, and singing as we explore various skills in theater and musical theater. These after-school meetings vary per semester and are contingent on the preparation and participation of interested students. This club is open to both middle and high school students.

• Students will obtain training and skills associated with stage performance: singing, acting, and movement, and use of correct terminology and vocabulary in written and oral discussion.
• Students will achieve an understanding of the historical, creative, artistic, and aesthetic aspects of theater and musical theater in relationship to American History.
• Students will gain a basic understanding of the social and cultural impact of the theater and stage art form on society and culture.
• Students will achieve a professional and personal understanding of the arts through rehearsals, auditions, writing, performances, and presentations (both written and aural).

Audio/Visual Club

This after-school club is dedicated to students eager to learn about sound production, lighting design, and Audio Visual skills associated with careers in that field. Students in this club will go through a training program on our school audio and lighting systems, and get certified to run the light and sound boards at various school and performing arts program events. This club will meet as a large group once a week, and then pursue the training program according to each student’s schedule until they are signed off. This club is open to both middle school and high school students.