Performing Arts Department
Mission Statement
The mission of the Performing Arts Department at St. Joseph is to aid the student in the development of the whole person through the avenues of self-expression provided by the performance. The department is dedicated to developing an understanding and appreciation of the technical and cognitive skills involved in performance art.
Goals
- Promote positive self-esteem and teamwork;
- Develop problem-solving skills;
- Develop effective communication skills;
- Develop an appreciation for different fine arts;
- Develop a discerning and educated audience member;
- To look at the National Standards and how they pertain to music and our lives.
Courses Available
Starter Band (Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion instruments)
Concert Band
Symphonic Band
High School Choir (Swing, Concert)
(½ Credit in a Fine Art Required for Graduation)
Starter Band
Elective / Two Terms / 1 Credit – Grades 7-12
This class is for students interested in learning a woodwind, brass or percussion instrument. Basic playing techniques will be learned. Class work will emphasize proper playing techniques, musical independence, as well as performance skills. Students will choose instruments the first week of school. Students interested in percussion must have piano background.
Concert Band
Elective / Two or Three Terms /1.0 or 1.5 credits / – Grades 7-12
Students will continue the development of musical skills. Class work will emphasize the development of technical proficiency, musical independence, as well as performance skills. Performance responsibilities include participation in all concerts, rehearsals, sectionals, and a responsible preparation of the music studied. Activities may include school concerts, group contest, athletic games (football, basketball), pep rallies, and special performances at civic, state, and national conventions, clinical presentations by invitation, convocation, and commencement.
Prerequisites: Students need past playing experience on a woodwind, brass or percussion instrument of at least one year. Placement in this class is by audition, and with the consent of the instructor.
Symphonic Band
Elective /Two or Three Terms /1.0 or 1.5 credits / – Grades 9-12
This is the advanced band organization of the school. The experience of Symphonic Band is designed to provide for the continued development of musical and technical skills with emphasis on the attainment of artistic judgment and aesthetic sensitivity. Students will be ready to play at the entry level in college. Performance responsibilities include participation in all concerts, the Annual Auction, rehearsals, sectionals, and a responsible preparation of the music studied. Activities may include school concerts, group contest, athletic games (football, basketball), pep rallies, and special performances at civic, state, and national conventions, clinical presentations by invitation, convocation, and commencement.
Prerequisites: Placement in this class is by audition and consent of the instructor is required.
Zero Period Band
Elective/ Two or Three Terms/ .25 or .50 credits/- Grades 9-12
This band meets 3 mornings a week for 45 minutes each- before the regular school day begins. This band is comprised of Symphonic Band members who are unable to fit band into their regular everyday schedule, due to scheduling constraints. The requirements of this ensemble are the same as the Symphonic band during the regular school day and will be graded as such. Students will be ready to play at the entry level in college. Performance responsibilities include participation in all concerts, the Annual Auction, rehearsals, sectionals, and a responsible preparation of the music studied. Activities may include school concerts, group contest, athletic games (football, basketball), pep rallies, and special performances at civic, state, and national conventions, clinical presentations by invitation, convocation, and commencement.
Prerequisites: Placement in this class is by audition and consent of the instructor is required.
Swing Choir
Elective / Two Terms / 1 Credit / – Grades 10, 11, 12
The Swing Choir is an advanced performing group. This group will perform at festivals, contests, and community events, as well as the Winter and Spring Concerts. Students will learn advanced vocal techniques and develop their solo and ensemble singing skills. Performance literature will include madrigals, spirituals, folk songs, classical, popular, jazz, and show tunes. Experience in music listening, appreciation, sight singing, and preparation for college Music Theory are also included.
Prerequisite: Audition required. Admission based on vocal quality, musicianship, stage presence, music reading skills, and voicing need for choral balance.
Concert Choir
Elective / Two Terms / 1 Credit – Grades 9-12
Concert Choir is the entry-level high school choir course. Members will study fundamental vocal technique, sight-reading, music theory, part-singing, rehearsal and performance skills, and music literature appropriate for student ability levels. Performance responsibilities include participation in all concerts, rehearsals, sectionals, Group Contest, and a responsible preparation for the music studied.