Performing Arts Curriculum

In Grade 4 music, students will learn about beat and rhythm-how to keep a steady beat and read/perform rhythms.  Students will also start learning the basics of sight reading-how to sing the solfege scale, singing in tune, and how to read/sing notes based.  They will also focus on learning good vocal technique while applying each of these skills by playing various instruments throughout the year. Finally, grade 4 students will participate in our annual Christmas pageant in December. 

GENERAL MUSIC
Students learn the history of music, its origins, and historical composers and explore how music has progressed in society. Hands-on theory teaching allows students to have an experience with music, giving them knowledge and access to pursue whatever musical journey they desire in middle school.

THEATRE ARTS
This course introduces students to basic theatre skills, exposing them to the building blocks of a theatrical performance, including volume, diction, stage position, and physical and emotional character creation. This course culminates with a small performance in which the actors are challenged to put these skills into practice for an audience of their parents and peers. 

(Year-long commitment)

This class is the beginning study of a band instrument and is designed for students with no prior experience on a band instrument. Basic skills such as correct hand positioning, tone production, and note reading will be taught. Several performances will be planned throughout the year. Rental or purchase of a band instrument is required.

• Beginning Flute
• Beginning Clarinet
• Beginning Alto Saxophone
• Beginning Tenor Saxophone
• Beginning Trumpet
• Beginning Trombone
• Beginning Baritone (Euphonium)
• Beginning Tuba
• Beginning Percussion (drums, bells, etc.)

Prerequisite: Beginning Band or placement audition with teacher recommendation.

(Year-long commitment)

Designed for students who have been playing one to two years, Intermediate Band offers a fun and challenging atmosphere that will equip them with the fundamental skills necessary to develop technical excellence. Music theory, music history, scale, and rhythmic studies will be incorporated into daily lessons. Students will refine the mechanics of proper sound production, will acquire knowledge of more difficult music reading, rhythm and rhythm patterns, and will further develop the social skills necessary to function successfully in a large group situation. Students will participate in several performances throughout the school year. Students will be assessed in both written and performance format. Rental or purchase of an instrument is required.

Prerequisite: Intermediate Band or placement audition with teacher recommendation. 

(Year-long commitment)

Designed for students with one or more years of school band and/or private lessons on a band instrument. This class includes the study and performance of advanced band literature with emphasis on tone, intonation, balance, blend, and musicality. Several performances will be planned throughout the year. Rental or purchase of an instrument is required. 

Prerequisite: Placement audition required. Period 0 offering. Sign up after school begins.

(Year-long commitment)

In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of jazz improvisation and technique. In addition to the techniques and rehearsal of performance, students will learn the theory and history of the music performed. Students are taught improvisation, jazz forms, and styles. Students will play beginning to intermediate level jazz music from various selected eras of musical history. Styles of music to be covered: swing, blues, rock, and Latin.

(Year-long commitment)

This class is designed for students with no prior experience on a string instrument. Basic skills such as correct hand positioning, tone production, and note reading will be taught. Several performances will be planned throughout the year. Rental or purchase of a string instrument is required.

• Beginning Bass
• Beginning Cello
• Beginning Viola
• Beginning Violin

Prerequisite: Beginning Strings, placement audition and teacher recommendation.

(Year-long commitment)

Designed for students with one or more years of school strings and/or private lessons on a string instrument. This class will build upon the skills learned in Beginning Strings and encourage students to develop the fundamental skills necessary for technical excellence. Music theory, music history, scales, and rhythmic and technique studies will be incorporated into daily lessons. Students will refine the mechanics of proper sound production, acquire knowledge of more difficult music reading and rhythm patterns and will further develop the social skills necessary to function successfully in a large group situation. Students will be assessed in both written and performance formats. Students will participate in at least one performance per semester. Rental or purchase of a string instrument is required.

Prerequisite: Intermediate Strings, placement audition and teacher recommendation.

(Year-long commitment)

Designed for students with one or more years of school strings and/or private lessons on a string instrument. This class includes the study and performance of advanced string literature with emphasis on tone, intonation, balance, blend, and musicality. Music theory, music history, scales, and rhythmic and technique studies will be incorporated into daily lessons. This class maintains a quick pace of learning music so students should be able to fluidly read basic notes and rhythms in various key and time signatures and maintain excellent social conduct. Students will participate in several performances throughout the year. Rental or purchase of a string instrument is required. 

(Semester or year-long commitment)

In this elective, students will learn how to play a variety of percussion instruments from various world traditions. This low-stress high-energy course will dive into the fun side of exploring percussion, drum patterns, styles, and themes through an interactive percussion experience. You will learn how to PLAY as well as how to read rhythms, and the emphasis will be placed on doing (playing). Period 0 offering. Sign up after school begins.

For 7th and 8th grade students only.

(Semester)

Students will be taught basic skills such as correct hand position, note reading, counting, and basic theory. Students will experience rhythm games and online theory as well as learning basic performance technique. Each semester will culminate in a recital performed by the students for parents.

Prerequisite: For 7th & 8th grade students only. Beginning Piano or placement audition.

(Semester)

Students will be taught sight reading, improvising, scales and more advanced theory as well as continuing to master basic piano skills. Students will also explore chording (improvisation using chords and melody line) as well as different techniques for learning music and digital recording. This class requires the ability to work independently on projects assigned by the teacher. Each semester will culminate in a recital performed by the students for parents. (Course availability is subject to meeting minimum course enrollment numbers and teacher availability.)

For 7th and 8th grade students only.

(Semester)

Beginning Guitar is an introduction to the history and performance of guitar in its many styles. It includes the study of American folk genres, such as blues, jazz, folk, and modern rock, as well as classical repertoire transcribed for the guitar. These genres will be used as a tool for understanding the rudimentary elements of music, expressive devices, and how these can be used to evoke feelings and meaning in a cultural context. Students will learn how to play single-note melodies as well as rhythmic harmonic accompaniment through chords. No recital or concert participation required.

Prerequisite: For 7th and 8th grade students only. Beginning Guitar or placement auditions.

(Semester)

Students will build on the basic concepts learned in Beginning Guitar. More advanced chords will be taught including bar chords, as well as alternative chord voicings in various fret positions. More advanced melodic playing and note reading will be expanded upon and students will continue to explore a variety of musical genres and styles. Developing theory and performance practice will be emphasized. No recital or concert participation required.

(Semester or year-long commitment)

This choir class is designed to help students find and develop a love for singing and performance in a fun and safe environment. Students will grow the voice and develop ensemble singing; study different styles of music; develop needed vocal skills to sing in these styles; become comfortable on stage performing on their own or with a group singing traditional, jazz, gospel, Broadway and pop music; learn movement skills necessary to make performances more dynamic and expressive; explore digital recording and songwriting using apps to make music sound more professional; acquire the tools needed to sight sing and make music independently. MSVE will perform in concerts and one choir festival during the year.

Prerequisite: Middle School Vocal Ensemble and/or placement audition and teacher recommendation.

(Semester or year-long commitment)

This course is an intermediate to advanced level of mixed voice singing at OCMS, open to students by audition. Students will enjoy learning all choral styles and will build on the basics of music training. Students will learn to sing in two- and three-part harmony. The Advanced MS Vocal Ensemble will perform several times throughout the year. Previous choral or vocal experience is necessary.

Prerequisite: For 7th & 8th grade students only. Middle School Vocal Ensemble, Advanced MS Vocal Ensemble, and/or placement audition and teacher recommendation. 

(Year-long commitment)

This course is an advanced level of mixed voice singing at OCMS, open to students by audition. Students will enjoy learning all choral styles with a focus on a cappella singing and will build upon music training. Students will learn to sing in three- and four-part harmony. Noteworthy will perform several times throughout the year. Previous choral or vocal experience is necessary.

Prerequisite: For 6th grade students only. Placement audition is required.

(Year-long commitment)

This class would introduce students to musical theatre at a basic level. Students would be exposed to acting techniques, dance, and vocal work. This year-long class would create a space for students to hone their skills and prepare them for Theatre and Vocal Performance the following year. This combination choir and theatre class may include participating in a Christmas concert, theatre and festivals, the Middle School Spring Musical production, and the Arts Extravaganza. Students (and parents) should know that choosing this class is making a pledge to be in the spring production.

7th and 8th grade students only. Pre-requisite: Introduction to Musical Theatre and/or placement auditions. 

(Year-long commitment)

Learn to sing and act using time-tested techniques that will grow your voice while developing acting skills, improvisation, characterization, musical theatre and ensemble singing. A combination choir and theatre class, this year-long course will introduce students to vocal performance and dramatic presentations. Projects will include a Christmas concert, theatre and festivals, the Middle School Spring Musical production, and the Arts Extravaganza. Students will develop skills needed for acting for the stage, ensemble and solo singing, microphone use, musical acting (how to sell a song), and movement, as well as understanding of principles of theatre production. Students who have taken Choir, Intro to Theatre and Vocal Performance, or Dance will be well suited to this class. In preparation for each production or performance, individual auditions will be required for role determination. Students (and parents) should know that choosing this class is making a pledge to be in the spring production.

(Fall semester)

Students who love theatre will enjoy the opportunity to be part of the cast who presents the middle school fall drama. From character development to curtain calls, this class allows both beginning and experienced actors to grow in their abilities through the process of putting on a show. Enrollment is not based on auditions, but students (and parents) should know that choosing this class is making a pledge to be in the fall production. Rehearsal time outside of class is required, including lunchtime and weekend rehearsals near the dates of the production. (Note: Students who audition for Theatre and Vocal Performance may want to mark this as their #2 choice!)

(Spring semester)

Students who are anxious to try out their improv skills or gain new ones will love this class! This course is an introduction to acting and comedy and is a non-audition class. Occasionally, there may be a need for additional rehearsal time outside of class in preparation for the sketch comedy performance. Students will learn improvisation games and techniques as well as explore the use of improvisation for scene creation and storytelling. This class will culminate with a sketch comedy scene presentation. (Note: Students who audition for Theater and Vocal Performance may want to mark this as their #2 choice!)

(Year-long commitment)

This class has an emphasis on fundamental technique and basic performance skills. First-time and/or inexperienced dancers will be exposed to multiple genres (jazz, ballet, contemporary, and hip-hop), and nurtured in personal expression, physical awareness, and creative discipline. Students will be put to the test in these areas during their performance in the annual dance concert. (This class can also earn PE credit.)

Prerequisite: Principles of Dance and/or placement audition.

(Year-long commitment)

Building upon the technique and skills covered in Principles of Dance, this course is designed for students who want to expand their knowledge and ability in dance. Students should have some experience in dance entering this class. Students will grow in areas of technique, creativity, physical capabilities, personal expression, endurance, rhythm, and choreography. Students will develop and expand their dance vocabulary and skills in many styles of dance. Students will also develop their creative abilities through improvisation, choreography, and performance. Students will be placed in this intermediate dance class based on technique, flexibility, and ability to pick up and retain choreography. (This class can also earn PE credit.)

Prerequisite: Intermediate Dance and/or placement audition.

(Year-long commitment)

This course is designed to develop and challenge the skills of previously-trained dancers. Emphasis is placed on proper technique and form through the advanced study of multiple genres (jazz, ballet, contemporary, and hip-hop). Performance skills are also polished through participation in different productions throughout the year, including the annual dance concert. Personal goal setting, concentration on physical discipline, and embracing the creative process are all on the agenda. Students will be placed in this advanced dance class based on technique, flexibility, and ability to pick up and retain choreography. Students should wear appropriate dance attire and bring shoes necessary for jazz and contemporary movement styles. Students with prior dance experience who have not taken Principles of Dance will need to audition before being placed in the course. (This class can also earn PE credit.) 

The Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) format of Apple’s Logic Pro X will be taught. Students will gain a basic knowledge of Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) and audio recording as well as editing recorded tracks and regions. An overview of basic functions of Logic Pro X will be presented so that at the end of the course, students will be able to record their own musical projects and convert them to an mp3 format.

Prerequisite: Beginning Digital Recording.

Students will expand their knowledge of basic Logic Pro X skills through the process of mixing and basic mastering techniques. Areas of focus in this class will include studio set-up fundamentals, signal chain, EQ, compression, reverb/delay, low-end bass, levels, and vocal mixing. Students may have opportunities to collaborate with Songwriting, Vocal, and Film students on various projects. It is recommended that students have an Apple laptop computer with Logic Pro X installed, but it is not required.

(Semester)

This course is designed to develop musical skills that will lead to a thorough understanding of music composition and music theory. The emphasis will be on the rules of theory and composition, ear training, sight singing, score analysis, and contemporary chord theory. Offered in a semester format, students would be able to learn music theory on a deeper level in a very quick paced setting. A basic understanding of music theory essentials and approval from the instructor is a prerequisite.

In this course, students can learn the basics of songwriting including what makes a good melody, form, beginning harmonic structures, rhythmic aspects, and lyric writing. Collaboration with other songwriters will be an important element of this class. Production of songs will be investigated, and early techniques will be taught using the Digital Audio Workstation of Soundtrap and Logic Pro X. Students will have access to professional song writers who will be brought in to present master classes and seminars on songwriting. (Offering subject to staff availability.)

Beginning Piano:

Students in this course will develop functional keyboard skills that will provide self-expression and personal growth through participation in music. The course will expose students to basic piano techniques, theory, scales, chords, and repertoire as well as encompass the skills of early sight-reading and beginning improvisation. The discipline of consistent practice in conjunction with graded early-adult piano methods will aid the student in successfully comprehending the fundamentals of music reading as well as executing elementary piano repertoire. Additionally, students will be exposed to a variety of styles and composers, as well as music from the various periods of music, increasing their knowledge and appreciation of various genres.

Intermediate/Advanced Piano:

Prerequisite: Beginning Piano or placement audition.

Students in this course will develop keyboard and musicianship skills, including fundamental and advanced technique, scale playing, sight-reading, harmonization, transposition, ensemble playing, accompaniment, and piano repertoire. Additionally, students will be exposed to a variety of styles and composers, as well as music from the various periods of music, increasing their knowledge and appreciation of various genres. Performance practice will be emphasized through regular Master Classes. Scalar and arpeggio techniques are studied in preparation for further work in choral, instrumental, ensemble, and solo literature.

Beginning Guitar:

Beginning Guitar is an introduction to the history and performance of guitar in its many styles. It includes the study of American folk genres, such as blues, jazz, folk, and modern rock, as well as classical repertoire transcribed for the guitar. These genres will be used as a tool for understanding the rudimentary elements of music, expressive devices, and how these can be used to evoke feelings and meaning in a cultural context. Students will learn how to play single-note melodies as well as rhythmic harmonic accompaniment through chords. They will perform these both as solos and ensemble groups.

Intermediate Guitar:

Prerequisite: Beginning Guitar

Students will build on the basic concepts learned in Beginning Guitar. More advanced chords will be taught including bar chords, as well as alternative chord voicings in various fret positions. More advanced melodic playing and note reading will be expanded upon. Advanced theory and performance practice will be emphasized. Students will also research habits of discipline and career paths associated with the guitar and the way guitar can be used alongside other artistic fields and media.

Advanced Guitar:

Prerequisite: Intermediate Guitar

Students will further build on the concepts learned in Intermediate Guitar. Advanced chords will be taught including bar chords, as well as alternative chord voicings in various fret positions. Students will explore intricate rhythms and mixed meters. Advanced melodic playing and note reading will be further expanded upon. Advanced theory and performance practice will be emphasized. Students will also research habits of discipline and career paths associated with the guitar and the way guitar can be used alongside other artistic fields and media. Career paths and potential college audition aspects will be discussed.

Orchestra is open to all students who play stringed instruments associated with the Western European traditions (Violin, Viola, Cello, and Upright Bass). THIS IS NOT AN ENTRY LEVEL CLASS. Students must have prior playing experience in either classroom instruction and/or private instruction and be able to demonstrate proficiency on their instrument and be able to read music. Styles of music will include traditional orchestral music of the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and 20th century, as well as popular, rock, and jazz literature. Music theory, improvisation, and chamber music performance practice will also be included. The Orchestra members will be afforded regular rehearsal times with the Symphonic Band to form a complete Symphonic Orchestra. At least one public performance will be presented each quarter.

Open to all students playing traditional jazz band instruments. Jazz Band is a year-long elective course. It is advantageous for students to be concurrently enrolled in Symphonic Band. Students must have prior playing experience either in classroom instruction and/or private instruction. A variety of jazz literature/styles will be explored, e.g., swing, Latin, bebop, bossa-nova, fusion, and others. Basic music theory, scale and rhythmic studies, and improvisation will also be included. Students are encouraged to improvise during most class meetings. Students will participate in several performances throughout the school year. For audition information, please contact Mr. Trombetta at vtrombetta@oakschristian.org.

(Entry into ensemble by audition)

Open to all students playing traditional band instruments and is a year-long elective course. THIS IS NOT AN ENTRY LEVEL CLASS. Students must have at least 2 years prior playing experience in either classroom instruction and/or private instruction and be able to demonstrate proficiency on their instrument and be able to read music. Traditional band literature will be explored, e.g., orchestral transcriptions, marches, movie scores, pop, and others. Basic music theory, scale and rhythmic studies will also be included. Students will participate in several performances throughout the school year. For audition information, please contact Mr. Trombetta at vtrombetta@oakschristian.org

Oaks Chorale is a mixed choir course that is open to all high school students with no audition required. Instruction in vocal production, ensemble singing, solos performance, microphone technique, stage movement, and basic theory will be included. Focus on developing stage presence and understanding stage movement will be emphasized. Students will participate in at least one public performance each quarter. Students will learn vocal techniques that will be applied to different vocal styles including classical, pop, rock, jazz, and music theatre. This class can be taken for subsequent years and changes each year based on changing repertoire and performances.

Prerequisite: one year of high school choir; vocal audition required.

The class includes advanced instruction in vocal production, ensemble singing, solo performance, microphone technique, stage movement, basic theory, and development of stage presence. Students will participate in at least one public performance each quarter. All students will be required to also be in a small performing ensemble (duets, trios, quartets, etc.) and will be asked to work on a solo as well. Focus on developing stage presence and understanding stage movement will be emphasized. Students will build upon vocal techniques that will be applied to different vocal styles including classical, pop, rock, jazz, and music theatre. This class can be taken for subsequent years for credit. The class content changes each year based on changing repertoire and performances. For audition information, please contact Mr. Rouse at erouse@oakschristian.org.

Vocal audition required

OC Voices is a mixed choir experience for advanced vocal students who have previous singing experience and is by audition only. Group auditions are held in the spring of the previous school year. OC Voices focuses on development of a cappella sound and techniques related to contemporary a cappella singing. Students will build upon development of vocal techniques that will be applied to different vocal styles including classical, pop, rock, jazz, and music theatre. The class includes advanced instruction in vocal production, ensemble singing, solo performance, microphone technique, stage movement, and basic theory. Focus on developing stage presence and understanding stage movement will be emphasized along with choreography for specific performances. Students will participate in multiple public performances throughout the year and will represent the Oaks Christian School both on and off campus and in festivals and competitions. This class can be taken for subsequent years for credit. The class content changes each year based on changing repertoire and performances. For audition information, please contact Mr. Rouse at erouse@oakschristian.org.

The purpose of this course is to familiarize theater students with the technical arts associated with theatrical productions. We will discuss and experiment with the artistic designs of scenery, properties, costumes, lighting, makeup, video, sound, and stage management. Students will be introduced to the methods and skills employed to safely implement these designs through group projects.

All students must be approved by teacher based on experience.

Our advanced theater class has the option of two years of participation for the serious theater student. In Advance Performance Technique students will deepen their approach for script analysis and scene study. Students will establish strategies for building characters, for ‘driving' a scene and for honoring the playwright’s intent. Students in this course are expected to contribute to all OCS theatrical productions; on-stage or as a member of our production team. The major emphasis of this course will be on attaining truthful and compelling behavior in performances.

(Semester)

Ready to laugh? This class will take students through a colorful history of comedy in stage and television. From Shakespeare to SNL, samples of great comedic scenes and writing will be studied. Students will learn the basics of improv, including space work, scene development, and character creation. They will get on their feet with short form and long form improvs; and dive into the writing and form of sketch comedy that will help them find their unique comedic voice. This class will also explore standup comedy: how it works, how to write it, and how to target specific audiences.

Acting for Camera I:

Prerequisite: Theatre Arts I

This course is an introduction to acting techniques needed for creating truthful performances in front of the camera. The class format will be to record and playback students’ ongoing work to instill technical and artistic craftmanship for the camera. Fundamental skills include scene preparation, energy, focus, and active listening. Major emphasis will be put on developing an understanding of how an actor works with the camera effectively. Students will explore techniques related to commercials, episodic drama, and comedy. (Course offering subject to staff availability.)

Acting for Camera II:

Prerequisite: Acting for the Camera I

Produced in association with the OCS Film class, students in this class will be involved as actors and collaborators in student created filmed content. Examples of past projects are a student produced film and a 6-episode web series. In addition, students will study the art of creating an actor demo reel and techniques utilized for self-taping auditions.

Dance Fundamentals (Dance I):

This course is designed for students who plan to learn dance. There is no experience necessary. Students will be taught basic technique, creativity, physical awareness, personal expression, endurance, rhythm, and basic choreography skills. Students will develop their dance vocabulary and techniques in many styles of dance including but not limited to jazz, tap, ballet, contemporary, and hip hop. Students will also develop their creative abilities through performance.

Dance Fundamentals II (Dance II):

Prerequisite: Dance Fundamentals or prior dance training; placement audition required.

This course is designed for students who want to expand their knowledge and ability in dance. Students should have some experience of dance entering this class and/or completion of Dance Fundamentals. Students will grow in areas of technique, creativity, physical capabilities, personal expression, endurance, rhythm, and choreography. Students will develop and expand their dance vocabulary and skills in many styles of dance. Students will also develop their creative abilities through improvisation, choreography, and performance.

Prerequisite: Dance II or prior dance training; placement audition required.

This course is designed for students who are intermediate/advanced dancers. Students’ minds and bodies will be challenged by working on their preexisting technique, focusing on refining movements and improving their skill set. In this class, students will grow in their flexibility, strength, ability to pick up choreography, placement, and coordination. Students will continue to develop their creative abilities through more advanced improvisation and learning more difficult choreography and how to perform it.

Prerequisite: Dance III and/or prior dance training; placement audition required.

This course is designed for students who are advanced dancers. Students’ minds and bodies will be challenged and expanded by focusing on technique. Students will develop and expand their pre -existing dance vocabulary and skills; concentration will be placed on body alignment, technical accuracy, and quality of movement. Students will continue to develop their creative abilities through more advanced improvisation, choreography, and performance which include advanced levels of ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and tap.

Prerequisite: Dance IV and/or prior dance training; placement audition required.

This course is designed for students who are advanced dancers. Students’ minds and bodies will be challenged and expanded by focusing on performance. Students will develop and expand their pre-existing dance vocabulary and skills; concentration will be placed on style, storytelling through their movement, and performance. Students will continue to develop their creative abilities through more advanced improvisation, choreography, and performance which include advanced levels of ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and tap.

Prerequisite: Prior dance training; placement audition required.

This course has a focus on technique, picking up advanced choreography, and stylized movement. Students will be challenged by having many performance opportunities in different performance spaces. Students will continue to develop their creative abilities through more advanced improvisation, choreography, and performance which include advanced levels of ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and tap. There is fee required for Dance Company to cover items including but not limited to master teachers, clothing, and competition fees.