Performing Arts

At Grandview High School, “The Arts Make a Difference!” Arts education is essential to each person’s development. Performing arts are vehicles for cultivating personal expression and for fostering creative potential. As a result of participation in the arts, students discover our shared cultural heritage and prepare for meaningful lifelong careers. Considering the many benefits of an arts education, participation in one or more areas of Grandview’s diverse and dynamic arts program should be an integral part of the course of study for all students wanting a well-rounded educational experience. The arts at Grandview High School will make a difference in your life! In addition to the courses listed below, students have the opportunity to participate in Wolf Pride Band. The Wolf Pride Band is open to any students with previous band experience. Rehearsals will be scheduled after school on a weekly basis during the fall and winter sports seasons.

Instrumental Education

Band

Concert Band

Prerequisites: None

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $50-100 for uniform; $150 to rent instrument (if needed)

The Concert Band is open to students who have previous band experience and have a desire to continue developing their skills on a wind or percussion instrument. No audition is required for this class. Students will develop greater skills in ensemble playing while reinforcing their knowledge of fundamentals such as proper posture and breath support, instrument position, and tone production. Students will learn about great composers of wind band repertoire and will develop a greater understanding of what makes an excellent performance. Concerts will be scheduled throughout the year, and attendance at each performance is mandatory. This course can be repeated for credit.

Symphonic Band

Prerequisites: Concert Band and/or audition by instructor

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $120-150 for uniform; $150 to rent instrument (if needed)

The Symphonic Band is comprised of auditioned band players and percussionists who demonstrate strong skills in basic musicianship and have a desire to further develop and refine their abilities. Students who become members of the symphonic band will have the opportunity to study music that is more difficult than that encountered in the concert band yet not quite as difficult as the literature played by the wind ensemble. It is expected that each student will be willing to practice on their own outside of the school day. Concerts will be scheduled throughout the year, and attendance at all performances is mandatory. Interested students will also have an opportunity to learn about chamber music by forming small ensembles that will rehearse outside of class. This course can be repeated for credit.

CE Wind Ensemble

Prerequisites: Symphonic Band and/or audition by instructor

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $120-150 for uniform; $150 to rent instrument (if needed)

The Wind Ensemble is a select group comprised of the most advanced wind players and percussionists at Grandview High School. Students who become members of the wind ensemble will have the opportunity to perform a number of great works from the wind band repertoire, including those of contemporary composers. As the emphasis of this course will be on difficult literature, it is expected that each student demonstrates a high level of commitment and personal responsibility. Students will be expected to practice on a regular basis. Students who excel often study privately with a qualified instructor. Several concerts will be scheduled throughout the year, and attendance at each performance is mandatory. Chamber music performance opportunities will also be made available to interested students and are strongly encouraged. This course can be repeated for credit.

Jazz Band 2

Prerequisites: Audition by instructor

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $120-150 for uniform; $150 to rent instrument (if needed)

The Jazz Band 2 is open to any student with a successful audition who wants to develop a better understanding of what it means to perform in a “jazz ensemble.” Students will learn about the basic skills necessary to perform with jazz style, including phrasing, articulation, and interpretation. Students will also learn about jazz theory and harmony. All students will be encouraged to explore the concepts of improvisation and jazz solo construction. Concerts will be scheduled throughout the year, and attendance at all performances is mandatory. This class serves as a prerequisite for the Jazz Band 1. This course can be repeated for credit.

CE Jazz Band 1

Prerequisites: Jazz Band 2 and/or audition by instructor

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $60-120 for uniform; $150 to rent instrument (if needed)

The Jazz Band 1 is a group of the most advanced jazz players. A strong emphasis will be placed on performance and developing skills in improvisation and in developing a better understanding of various musical styles such as swing, jazz ballad, funk, fusion, Latin, etc. Students will be expected to practice on a regular basis and to demonstrate a high level of commitment and personal responsibility. Concerts will be scheduled throughout the year, and attendance at all performances is mandatory. This course can be repeated for credit.

Orchestra

Concert Orchestra

Prerequisites: No audition, two or more years of experience on a string orchestral instrument

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $120-150 for uniform; $150 to rent instrument (if needed)

This group performs original and arranged string orchestra repertoire from the Baroque, Classical, and Modern eras, as well as pop, Celtic, Rock, and many more. The primary focus is on refining technique and some remedial concepts through small group and individualized instruction. Concerts will be scheduled throughout the year and attendance at each performance is mandatory. This course can be repeated for credit.

Symphonic Orchestra

Prerequisites: Concert Orchestra and/or audition and written recommendation from high school director

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $120-150 for uniform; $150 to rent instrument (if needed)

The Symphonic Orchestra is comprised of auditioned string players who demonstrate strong skills in basic musicianship and have a desire to further develop and refine their abilities. Primary focus is on refining shifting techniques, vibrato, and bowing styles. Students who become members of the symphonic orchestra will have the opportunity to study music that is more difficult than that encountered in concert orchestra yet not quite as difficult as the literature played by chamber orchestra. It is expected that each student will be willing to practice on their own outside of the school day. Concerts will be scheduled throughout the year, and attendance at all performances is mandatory. Interested students will also have an opportunity to perform full orchestra music with members of the Wind Ensemble for the full symphonic experience. This course can be repeated for credit.

CE Chamber Orchestra

Prerequisites: Audition and recommendation from high school director

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $120-150 for uniform; $150 to rent instrument (if needed)

The Chamber Orchestra is an audition-based group compiled of the most advanced string players at Grandview High School. Students who become members of the Chamber Orchestra will have the opportunity to perform a number of great works from orchestra repertoire. As the emphasis of this course will be on difficult repertoire, it is expected that each student demonstrates a high level of commitment and personal responsibility. Students are expected to practice on a regular basis and advised to study privately with a qualified instructor. Several concerts are scheduled throughout the year and attendance at each performance is mandatory. Quartet/Chamber music opportunities are available to those interested and is strongly encouraged. This course can be repeated for credit.

Piano (semester)

Prerequisites: None

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 0.5

All students of all ability levels are welcome to join Piano Lab to hone their musical skills. Students will learn to play the piano for the first time, learn to write their own music, or work on advanced piano technique and music theory, all using our online curriculum, eNovative Piano. Students will have the opportunity to choose music to play in mini recitals throughout the semester. This course can be repeated for credit.

Wolf Pride Band (co-curricular activity)

Prerequisites: None

Grade level: 9-12

The band is open to any student with previous band experience, this also includes color guard. Rehearsals are after school on a weekly basis during fall and winter sports. The Wolf Pride Band will play for three local parades, many home football, volleyball, basketball games, and school pep assemblies. Additional performance opportunities at some area college and university sporting events may also be scheduled along with regional band competitions.

Meets: Tuesdays & Thursdays 3:45-6 pm

Theatre and Tech Theatre

Theatre

Theatre 1

Prerequisites: None

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 0.5

Students in Theatre 1 develop the beginning acting skills of a mature performer and obtain an overview of theatre at Grandview High School. Participation in class activities enhances the student’s self-confidence, poise, and creativity. Performance projects include, but are not limited to improvisation, storytelling, pantomime, monologues, and scenes. In addition to classwork, students are required to view two live theatre productions outside of class.

Theatre 2

Prerequisites: Theatre 1

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 0.5

In Theatre 2, students expand on skills learned in Theatre 1. Emphasis will be given to script and character analysis through daily acting, improvisation, and discussion. Performance projects include, but are not limited to scene study, monologues, improvisation, voice, movement, and auditioning. In addition to classwork, students are required to view two live theatrical productions outside of the classroom.

Theatre 3

Prerequisites: Theatre 2 and instructor approval

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Theatre 3 is an advanced course in acting. Students build on the skills developed in Theatre 1 & 2. Course work includes Viewpoints (movement-based acting), improvisation, methods of acting, history of theatre and script development. In addition, students are required to view two live theatrical productions outside the classroom per semester and are strongly encouraged to participate in the Colorado State Thespian Conference.

Theatre 4 Directing & Acting

Prerequisites: Theatre 3 and instructor approval

Grade level: 11-12

Credit: 1

Theatre 4 allows students to pursue the fundamentals of stage direction. It emphasizes the artistic and collaborative development of auditioned acting students. Scenes are drawn from the Greeks, Shakespeare, Moliere, Chekhov, Williams, and Wilson, among others. Course work may include the following: directing and advanced acting, script and character analysis, and design concepts. Students refine the skills studied in Theatre 1, 2 and 3. Course work includes Viewpoints (movement-based acting), improvisation, methods of acting, history of theatre and script development. In addition to classwork, students are required to view two live theatrical productions outside of the classroom and are encouraged to participate in the State Thespian Conference. This course can be repeated for credit.

Tech Theatre

Tech Theatre 1

Prerequisites: None

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 0.5

Tech Theatre 1 offers students a hands-on opportunity to learn many aspects of stagecraft. Students will learn safety, scenery construction, scenic painting, and stage lighting. In addition to classwork, students are required to view one live theatrical production outside of the classroom and write a reflection on their experience.

Tech Theatre 2

Prerequisites: Tech Theatre 1

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 0.5

Tech Theatre 2 offers a continuation of the basics of backstage work. Students will study costume design and construction, sound engineering, stage make- up/special effects, properties, and stage management. In addition, students may expand on previous learning in areas such as stage lighting and carpentry. Students are required to see one live theatrical production outside of the classroom and write a reflection on their experience. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in some of the opportunities in Technical Theatre for the after-school productions each year. This course can be repeated for credit.

Tech Theatre 3

Prerequisites: Tech Theatre 2 and instructor approval

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Tech Theatre 3 students refine the skills they have learned in Tech 1 and 2 and work on realized theatre production projects at an advanced level. Emphasis will be on leading stage crews, designing theoretical and realized productions, organization, and time management. Students will refine leadership abilities as they mount productions in the GHS theatre, run live events/concerts after school and build their resume and portfolio of work. This course can be repeated for credit.

Theatre Production Ensemble
Unified Theatre

Theatre Production Ensemble

Prerequisites: Audition only

Grade level: 11-12

Credit: 1

This audition-only course is for the advanced theatre student. It emphasizes the artistic and collaborative development of auditioned, advanced students. Play production is the core of this class. Students may be performing the following dramatic genres: murder mystery, children’s theatre, improvisation, Shakespeare, 1-Acts and/or ensemble production. Students are required to participate in the evening productions, which will be produced at least once a quarter. Participation in the State Thespian Conference, as well as play production is strongly encouraged. This course can be repeated for credit.

Unified Theatre

Prerequisites: Application/interview

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 0.5

Students in Unified Theatre will apply to Peer Partners with our ILC program to give opportunities for all students to enjoy the theater experience! This class is for all ability levels to explore how creative dramatics can develop social-emotional learning skills as well as develop community. By the end of this course, students will be able to perform a play alongside peers of diverse abilities on the GHS Theatre stage.

Vocal Music

Treble Choir

Prerequisites: None

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $120 for uniform

Treble Choir is a non-audition singing group. Students will learn essential vocal techniques, performance skills, and the fundamentals of music literacy. A wide range of choral music will be used. Emphasis will also be placed on developing teamwork and experiencing the excitement of performance during five required concerts held at school during the year as well as developing singing skills. This course can be repeated for credit.

Tenor/Bass Choir

Prerequisites: None

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $25 for uniform

Tenor/Bass Choir is a non-audition singing group. Students will learn essential vocal techniques, performance skills, and the fundamentals of music literacy. A wide range of choral and solo music will be used. Emphasis will also be placed on developing teamwork and experiencing the excitement of performance during five required concerts held at school during the year. This course can be repeated for credit.

Camerata

Prerequisites: Audition by director

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $120 for uniform

Camerata is an intermediate-level choral experience for men and women who demonstrate high levels of vocal skill and personal responsibility as well as a scholarly attitude toward learning musicianship. Emphasis will be on developing elegance and precision in the performance of high-quality choral literature for mixed voices. Five required concerts will be held during the school year. This course can be repeated for credit.

CE Bella Voce

Prerequisites: Audition by director

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $130 for uniform

Bella Voce is an advanced-level experience for Sopranos and Altos. Emphasis is on refining the skills learned in a previous choir and learning more sophisticated ensemble techniques. Challenging choral music in multiple styles will be learned and performed. Five school concerts, as well as several performances outside of school will be required. Optional small ensemble and solo performances will be available for interested students. This course can be repeated for credit.

CE Chamber Singers

Prerequisites: Audition by director

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $130 for uniform

Chamber Singers is a highly select mixed ensemble for students who demonstrate high levels of vocal skill and personal responsibility, as well as a scholarly attitude toward learning. Emphasis will be on developing maturity and precision in the performance of the full range of choral literature for mixed voices and on helping students become increasingly aware of the incredible integration of human experience that is the nature of choral music. Weekly practice outside of school is required. Participation in 5 to 10 performances, in addition to regular school concerts is required. Additional optional performances will be available for interested students. This course can be repeated for credit.

Jazz Choir

Prerequisites: Audition by director plus involvement in 2 years of GHS choir

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Fee: $130 for uniform

Jazz Choir is a highly select mixed ensemble for students who demonstrate high levels of vocal skill and personal responsibility, as well as a scholarly attitude toward learning musicianship. Emphasis will be on developing jazz tone and style, improvisation techniques, advanced levels of choral tuning, and intricacies of jazz performance. Weekly practice outside of school is required. Participation in 10 to 15 performances, in addition to regular school concerts, is required. It is recommended that students in Jazz Choir also be in another choir in the Grandview Performing Arts Department, but it is not mandatory. This course can be repeated for credit.

Additional Performing Arts Courses

AP Music Theory (CE optional)

Prerequisites: Consent of music instructor

Grade level: 10-12

Credit: 1

Fee: See AP section for exam fee

The goal of AP Music Theory is to develop a student’s ability to recognize, understand, and describe the basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. Students will develop analytical skills, performance skills, aural skills, and compositional skills. Before taking this course, students should know their major key signatures, be able to read and write musical notation, and have basic performance skills in voice or on an instrument. Due to the advanced nature of the class, grades will be weighted.

Film Appreciation

Prerequisites: None

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 0.5

Film Studies is designed to familiarize students with style of film techniques and cultural significance. This course provides a project-based approach to film as a visual art form. Students will explore the history of cinema, learn the language of film critiques, and gain hands-on experience in film production. Students will explore differences in genres, filmmaking styles, and participate in a student-produced film festival.

Social Dance 1

Prerequisites: None

Grade level: 9-12

Credit: 0.5

Social Dance is a lifetime sport and an exciting class at GHS. Students will learn partnered dances from many different cultures and traditions. Curriculum includes Swing Dance, Salsa, Merengue, Tango, Contra, and Traditional Ballroom styles. Students will work together to present multimedia research projects on a chosen area of Dance. Physical Education credit may be earned through this course.