UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY WITH FINE ARTS

Welcome to the the Fine Arts Department at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, where creativity thrives and artistic expression knows no bounds. Here, students embark on a journey of discovery and innovation, guided by passionate instructors who foster a supportive environment for artistic exploration. From visual arts to performing arts, our department offers a diverse range of opportunities for students to cultivate their talents and unleash their creative potential. With state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and a rich array of extracurricular activities, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of artists, musicians, actors, and dancers. Join us as we celebrate the power of creativity and imagination in shaping the hearts and minds of our students at St. Thomas Aquinas High School's Fine Arts Department.

VISUAL ARTS

Visual arts encompass a wide array of creative expressions, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and graphic design. Through the manipulation of visual elements such as color, form, line, and texture, artists convey ideas, emotions, and messages, inviting viewers to interpret and engage with their work. St. Thomas Aquinas offers Digital Photography, Graphic Design, Pottery and Studio Art as part of the Visual Arts Department.

Digital Photography Imaging Honors

Digital Photography Imaging Honors I
Digital Photography I is an after-school course designed to give students the necessary skills to shoot effective digital photos and to process and upload prints digitally. This course is open to all who love photography and can supply their own smart phone with a built-in digital camera. Students will learn history, technique, elements of composition, and application of photography in the digital medium. Although time will be allotted in each class to shooting photos on campus, students are expected to also shoot photos at various locations of their choice to ensure a variety of subjects, backgrounds and landscapes become a part of their digital library. Students shall achieve objectives through a combination of demonstrations and examples, group discussions, video lessons, lectures, assignments, computer work, and participating in on-campus exhibitions.

Digital Photography Imaging Honors II
Digital Photography II, an after-school course, offers students an opportunity to gain further insight into photography and graphic manipulation of images through use of their camera’s built-in editing software. The course builds upon the rudiments acquired in the first section by challenging students with independent artistic lessons. A more mature approach to photographic basics will include the introduction of studio lighting, use of additional lenses, cropping and filters along with subject and compositional elements to complement an increasingly challenging set of manipulation requirements through your smartphone's editing software and use of third-party applications. Although time will be allotted in each class to shooting photos on campus, students are expected to also shoot photos at various locations of their choice to ensure a variety of subjects, backgrounds and landscapes continue to be a part of their digital library. Students shall achieve objectives through a combination of demonstrations and examples, group discussions, video lessons, lectures, assignments, computer work, participating in on-campus exhibitions, and at times through photographing STA student life.

Graphic Design Newspaper & Journalism Honors

Graphic Design/Newspaper Journalism Honors

This course offers levels I-IV, tailored to student experience with the school newspaper. This honors elective enables students to create the online newspaper (www.raiderreview.org), honing reporting skills and utilizing various programs for digital publications. From content compilation to article writing, layout design, and multimedia integration, students engage in real-world newspaper production, assuming editorial and creative roles.

Graphic Design I & Graphic Design II Honors

Graphic Design I Honors

In this year-long course, students utilize professional-grade creative software to delve into computer art's specialized techniques. Areas covered include digital art, graphic design, e-publishing, and multimedia production, essential for fostering originality. Using bitmap and vector-based programs, students explore advanced drawing features, creating digital and interactive projects for various platforms.

Graphic Design II Honors

Computer Graphic Arts II Honors extends skills from Computer Graphic Arts I, focusing on text-image interaction. Students develop independence, applying graphic communication fundamentals to solve design challenges. Proficiency in brainstorming, conceptualizing, and collaboration grows through real-world projects. With a competition component, students present work for digital contests. Previous Adobe software experience is recommended.

Pottery I Honors

Pottery I Honors

Pottery I Honors is open to students of all grades and offers an in-depth exploration of ceramic arts. In this course, students will learn four hand-building techniques: pinch, coil, slab, and hollowed-out forms. These methods will be applied in creating a variety of work such as a vase, lidded box, teapot, animal sculptures and other creative projects. Students will also develop skills in pottery glazing techniques. Throughout the course, students will practice studio etiquette, learning to maintain a clean, organized workspace while collaborating with peers. Emphasis will be placed on mastering ceramic vocabulary and the correct use of pottery tools.

2D Art & 3D Art Honors

Art 2D and 3D Honors

Art 2D and 3D Honors is a full-year course blending 2D and 3D art techniques. Drawing covers observation, proportion, and perspective, while painting delves into color theory and technique. Printmaking explores multiple image designs, while sculpture involves additive and reductive processes like pottery and block carving. STEM integration enriches the Fine Arts approach.

AP 2D Art & AP 3D Art

Advanced Placement 2D Art

This year-long course delves into advanced artistic inquiry, aligning with AP College Board standards to mirror a first-year college fine arts curriculum. Students explore aesthetic and conceptual ideas within their chosen concentration, creating a portfolio through practice and revision. Submitted to the AP College Board, portfolios may earn college credit based on scoring. Prerequisites include completion of Art 2D & 3D Honors, Pottery Honors, or Computer Graphic Arts Honors, or equivalent visual arts courses, along with instructor recommendation. Skills such as understanding the elements of art, analyzing artists and traditions, and art presentation and writing are integral to portfolio completion.

Advanced Placement 3D Art

This year-long course delves into advanced artistic inquiry aligned with AP College Board standards, mirroring a first-year college fine arts curriculum. Students explore aesthetic and conceptual ideas in 3D art, crafting pieces through practice and revision for a portfolio submission. Portfolios, scored by the AP College Board, may earn college credit. Understanding elements of art, design principles, artist knowledge, and art presentation are integral. Prerequisites include completion of Art 2D & 3D Honors, Pottery Honors, or Computer Graphic Arts Honors, or equivalent visual arts courses, along with instructor recommendation.

Advanced Placement Drawing

Requirement: Signature or recommendation of instructor; 2D & 3D Art Honors or its equivalent; Pottery I Honors or its equivalent. AP Drawing is a full year course open to sophomores, juniors and seniors. The AP Drawing course is designed for students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of art. Students submit portfolios for evaluation at the end of the school year. Visual thinking is stressed along with creativity, mastery of skills, and critical analysis. The course emphasizes design, learning to “see like an artist,” and advanced problem solving. Keystones to the program are dedication, self-discipline, and the discovery and development of the individual artistic “voice.” AP Drawing is an opportunity for the visually gifted to stand out and receive recognition on a national scale. All students enrolled in the course are required to submit a portfolio.

Film Production

Film Production I

This is an introductory course designed to teach students the foundational skills to create short films. This hands-on class covers the essential aspects of filmmaking, including shot composition, sound design, lighting, cinematography, and editing techniques. By the end of the course, students will have completed a series of short film projects, building a solid portfolio and a deep understanding of the art and craft of film production.

Film Production II

Building on the foundation of Film Production I, **Film Production II** takes students deeper into the world of filmmaking with advanced techniques and specialized skills. This course focuses on advanced writing, storyboarding, digital editing, and explores key elements such as Foley, sound design, illuminology (lighting design), and animation. Students will also dive into emerging technologies like artificial intelligence in film production.In addition to hands-on learning, students will have the opportunity to submit their work to film festivals and media contests, positioning themselves for future studies and careers in the film industry.

PERFORMING ARTS

Performing Arts encompasses a diverse range of disciplines that captivate audiences through live performances. In dance, students express themselves through movement, mastering various styles and techniques. Instrumental music offers students the opportunity to hone their musical talents, whether through solo performances or ensemble collaborations. Technical theater focuses on the behind-the-scenes aspects of production, including set design, lighting, and sound. Theater immerses students in the world of acting, directing, and stagecraft, bringing stories to life on the stage. Vocal training teaches students to use their voices as instruments, exploring different genres and styles of singing. Together, these areas of Performing Arts provide students with invaluable skills in creativity, expression, collaboration, and performance.

Dance

Dance Techniques I

This course cultivates students' dance knowledge, skills, and artistic expression within cultural and historical contexts. It covers diverse dance techniques, repertory work, and the cultural significance of dance. Students participate in at least one production per semester, fostering performance experience and understanding the impact of dance in society.

Dance Techniques II Honors

This intermediate-level course fosters students' dance proficiency and artistic expression within cultural and historical frameworks. It encompasses diverse dance techniques, repertory work, and understanding dance's cultural impact. Mandatory participation in at least one production per semester enhances performance skills and contextualizes dance within society. Students are required to procure suitable footwear and attire for class activities.

Dance Techniques III & Dance Techniques IV Honors

In these advanced course, students refine their dance expertise and artistic expression within cultural and historical contexts. Comprehensive content covers diverse dance techniques, repertory work, and understanding dance's cultural significance. Mandatory participation in at least one production per semester sharpens performance skills and enriches understanding of dance's societal impact. Proper footwear and attire are prerequisites for class participation, ensuring students are equipped for rigorous dance training and performance requirements.

Dance Choreography I & Dance Choreography II Honors

Dance Choreography I Honors provides students with advanced knowledge, skills, and artistic abilities in dance movement and performance within cultural and historical contexts. Content includes various dance techniques, repertory work, basic choreographic principles, and exploration of the cultural impact of dance. Participation in semester productions is mandatory. Proper footwear and dance attire are required.

Dance Choreography II Honors builds upon foundational skills, exploring intermediate/advanced choreographic principles and technical stage production skills. Students produce choreographic works in addition to participating in semester productions. Emphasis remains on understanding dance's cultural significance. Proper footwear and attire are essential. Through these courses, students deepen their understanding of dance and emerge equipped to produce compelling performances and choreographic works.

Dance Choreography III & Dance Choreography IV

Course Description: In Dance Choreography III Honors, students delve into the historical works of professional choreographers across genres, studying movement design, artistic intent, and intellectual property. Content encompasses advanced dance techniques, choreographic principles, and understanding dance's cultural significance. Students practice auditioning and casting dancers, performing in semester productions and producing original works. Proper footwear and attire are essential.

Dance Choreography IV Honors continues the exploration of professional choreographers' historical works, focusing on movement design and artistic intent. Students deepen their understanding of choreographic principles, cultural impact, and technical stage production skills. Auditioning and casting skills are honed, with mandatory participation in semester productions and student-generated works. Proper footwear and attire are required. Through these courses, students develop advanced choreographic skills and a nuanced appreciation for dance's artistic and historical dimensions.

Instrumental Music

Marching Band I, II, III, IV Honors

Students engage in various activities within the school's marching band, including studying the program's music, rehearsing routines, music assessments, competitions, and parades. Participation options include playing brass, woodwinds, percussion, or working with flags and batons. Public performances signify instructional achievements, with some rehearsals and performances occurring beyond school hours to support learning goals.

Band Corps I, II, III, IV Honors

Color Guard and baton twirlers cultivate fundamental skills in performing and assessing choreographed routines, both independently and in collaboration with music ensembles. Focus areas include dance, equipment handling, precision, and the synergy between music and movement. Public performances mark instructional milestones, with potential rehearsals and events outside school hours to enhance learning outcomes.

Advanced Band I, II, III, IV Honors

In this year-long entry-level class, students with minimal or no prior band experience in woodwind and brass instruments explore and appreciate music through performances of high-quality beginner wind literature. Rehearsals emphasize critical listening, rudimentary instrumental techniques, music literacy, and ensemble skills, leading to periodic public performances.

Jazz Ensemble I & II

Jazz Ensemble I & II offer progressive exploration of jazz fundamentals for students with varying levels of experience. In Jazz Ensemble I, students with compatible instruments delve into performance practices, improvisation, and music theory through a diverse jazz repertoire. Jazz Ensemble II students, already versed in jazz, focus on chord progressions, scale relationships, improvisation, and composition over progressions. Both classes study jazz history and cultural context, culminating in public performances. Students may need to acquire instruments externally.

Jazz Ensemble III & IV Honors

In Jazz Ensemble III, students with considerable jazz experience delve into complex forms and harmonic progressions, refining aural and improvisational skills. They study high-quality jazz literature, applying theory to arranging, transposition, and composition, while exploring various periods, cultural contexts, compositions, and artists in jazz history. Public performances signify instructional achievements. Similarly, Jazz Ensemble IV caters to students with significant jazz experience, who master complex harmonic structures, compose or arrange for small groups, and improvise across forms, keys, and styles. They explore the professional jazz scene and its icons, along with technology's impact on jazz and sound reinforcement basics for performance. Rigorous Honors-level coursework includes independent study and synthesis of learning. Public performances mark instructional milestones, with potential rehearsals and events outside school hours to enhance learning outcomes. Students may need to obtain instruments externally for both classes.

Classical Guitar I & II

In Guitar Honors I, beginners develop basic guitar skills, including simple and full-strum chords, bass lines, barre and power chords, foundational music literacy, major scales, and finger-picking patterns. Students explore significant performers across various styles, culminating in public performances to showcase their achievements. Rehearsals and performances outside school hours may be required, and students may need to obtain their own instruments. Meanwhile, Guitar Honors II builds upon previous experience, with students advancing to incorporate chords, strumming and finger-picking patterns, movable major and minor scales, basic music theory, and more complex bass lines and lead sheets. Ensemble skills are developed for diverse musical styles, and public performances serve as a culmination of instructional goals.

Classical Guitar III & IV Honors

Classical Guitar III and IV Honors elevate students' guitar skills and knowledge. In Classical Guitar III, students with previous experience enhance their abilities by incorporating various chords, refining finger-picking and strumming patterns, and reading notation in different positions. They study significant musicians, developing self-assessment skills and presenting public performances. Similarly, Classic Guitar IV Honors is geared towards those with considerable experience, broadening skills with left- and right-hand techniques, classical etudes, and jazz chords. Students delve into modes, extend reading and theory skills, and undertake independent study. Both courses emphasize public performances as instructional milestones and may require students to obtain instruments from external sources.

Percussion Ensemble I, II & III Honors

Percussion Ensemble I introduces students to instrumental ensemble performance, focusing on basic musicianship and foundational skills across diverse musical styles. Through the study of high-quality music, students develop techniques, music literacy, listening skills, and aesthetic awareness. In Percussion Ensemble II, students with prior ensemble experience further refine their skills and collaborate in rehearsals and performances across various styles and time periods. Self-assessment becomes integral as students delve deeper into musical exploration. Additionally, students are required to obtain drum sticks, keyboard mallets, and timpani mallets from external sources to fully engage in the course.

In Percussion Ensemble III, students further enhance their instrumental ensemble performance skills, music literacy, and analytical abilities. Through the exploration of high-quality music across diverse styles, students deepen their understanding of relevant musical styles and time periods. Emphasis is placed on self-assessment and collaboration during rehearsals and performances. Public performances may mark significant instructional achievements. As with previous levels, students are required to obtain drum sticks, keyboard mallets, and timpani mallets from external sources to fully engage in the course.

Music Ensemble I

Experienced students in instrumental ensembles hone musicianship and performance skills by studying diverse musical styles. Focus areas include foundational techniques, music literacy, listening skills, and aesthetic awareness. Public performances may mark instructional milestones. Students may need to attend rehearsals and performances outside school hours. External instrument procurement is necessary, with director approval required.

Music Ensemble II & III Honors

Experienced students in instrumental ensembles refine musicianship and performance skills through diverse musical studies. Focus areas encompass foundational techniques, music literacy, listening skills, and aesthetic appreciation. Public performances may signify instructional milestones. Outside rehearsals and performances may be necessary for extended learning. External instrument acquisition is mandatory, subject to director approval.

Theater & Technical Theater

Theater Appreciation I & II

Theater Appreciation I Honors introduces students to all facets of theater, emphasizing play production and hands-on experience. Through studying theater arts and literature, students delve into acting, set and lighting design, makeup, costume design, and public relations. Attendance and auditioning for STA productions are required for course completion, fostering an understanding of the acting process. Evaluation is based on quizzes, essays, projects, class participation, and work ethic.

Theater Appreciation II Honors immerses students in all facets of theatrical production, allowing them to join the production team for STA productions. Students can apply for various roles such as sound, lighting, props, costumes, makeup, and public relations. Requirements include attending performances and completing after-school assignments. Auditioning for productions offers insight into the acting process. Evaluation criteria include quizzes, projects, class participation, and work ethic.

Theater Appreciation III & IV

Theater Appreciation III Honors targets students aspiring for careers in technical theater, architecture, public relations, or fashion design. Building on knowledge from previous courses, students lead design teams for school productions. Requirements include designing sets, props, costumes, lighting, sound, or publicity for school productions and other class plays. Auditioning for productions provides insight into acting. Evaluation is based on design process, quizzes, projects, class participation, and work ethic.

Theater Appreciation IV Honors is tailored for students eyeing careers in technical theater, architecture, public relations, or fashion design. Building on knowledge from previous courses, students lead design teams for school productions. Requirements include designing sets, props, costumes, lighting, sound, or publicity for school productions and other class plays. Additionally, students compile a design portfolio and resume for college interviews and scholarship auditions. Auditioning for productions offers insight into acting. Assessment criteria include the design process, quizzes, projects, class participation, and work ethic.

Acting I

Acting I Honors offers a comprehensive introduction to the acting process, emphasizing improvisation, analysis, characterization, and performance. Students gain experience through class performances and must audition for fall and spring productions, attending all STA theater productions. Assessment includes quizzes, projects, class participation, rehearsal etiquette, and work ethic. The course aims to cultivate students' appreciation and respect for the nuances of fine arts performance.

Acting II, III & IV Honors

Acting II Honors delves deeper into acting and directing, emphasizing improvisation and scene work. Students audition for and attend fall and spring productions, participating in all STA theater events. Assessment includes quizzes, projects, class participation, rehearsal etiquette, and work ethic.

Acting III Honors immerses students in advanced acting and directing techniques, emphasizing analysis, characterization, and performance. Students mentor and direct peers, audition for and attend fall and spring productions, and participate in all STA theater events. Assessment includes quizzes, projects, class participation, rehearsal etiquette, and work ethic.

Acting IV Honors offers advanced exploration of acting and directing, emphasizing analysis, characterization, and performance. Students mentor and direct peers across all levels, audition for and attend all productions, and participate in an end-of-year "Capstone" project. Assessment includes quizzes, projects, class participation, rehearsal etiquette, and work ethic.

Musical Theater I Honors

Musical Theater I Honors is an advanced course offering comprehensive exploration of the musical theater realm. Through a multifaceted curriculum, students delve into various aspects including voice, movement, and performance. The coursework encompasses script and music analysis, characterization, audition techniques, acting methodologies, vocal performance, dance, non-dance movement, and staging intricacies. This broad skill set equips students for diverse roles and responsibilities within musical productions. Additionally, students engage in a historical journey, examining the evolution of music in theater from ancient Greece to modern Broadway, fostering a deeper understanding of the art form's cultural significance. Public performances are integral to the course, serving as a platform for students to showcase their learning and growth. Alongside performances, students participate in rehearsals and extracurricular activities to augment their learning experience. Through process journals, projects, class participation, and adherence to rehearsal etiquette, students undergo comprehensive assessment, ensuring holistic development and mastery of musical theater skills.

Students must audition for the fall and spring productions. Students are required to perform in the school musical, onstage and/or backstage, in the role that is assigned by the instructor.

Musical Theater II Honors

Musical Theater II Honors delves deeply into the musical theater process, offering immersive experiences in voice, movement, and performance. Students advance their skills in audition techniques, script analysis, characterization, vocal performance, dance, and staging. They explore the historical evolution of music in theater, from ancient Greece to modern Broadway. Public performances are central, allowing students to demonstrate their talents and meet instructional goals. Participation in auditions, rehearsals, and performances outside regular hours enriches the learning experience. Evaluation criteria include process journals, projects, class engagement, rehearsal conduct, and adherence to professional standards.

Technical Theater I, II, III, IV Honors

Technical Theater I/II/III/IV Honors provides a comprehensive introduction to the intricacies of technical show production, covering event planning, stage management, and lighting and sound design. Students gain practical skills applicable to various Fine Arts department performances, including drama, choir, and dance productions at the Bienes Center for the Arts. Through hands-on learning, students apply their knowledge to support the execution of these events. Emphasis is placed on mastering the technical aspects of production to ensure seamless performances. Students engage in experiential learning opportunities to deepen their understanding of the production process and contribute effectively to the success of each event.

Vocal

Aquinas Chamber Singers I, II, III, IV Honors

Aquinas Chamber Singers offers advanced vocal techniques, catering to talented vocal students. Through mixed ensemble performances, students tackle intricate music literature, enhancing independent part singing, artistic interpretation, and solo performance skills. The ensemble specializes in acapella singing with choreography, showcasing compositions from various vocal periods. Performing 2-3 times monthly at school events, concerts, and community venues, students gain valuable performing experience. Prerequisite: one year of choir/chorale class.

Music Theory Advanced Placement

The AP Music Theory course corresponds to one or two semesters of a typical introductory college music theory course that covers topics such as musicianship, theory, musical materials, and procedures. Musicianship and listening skills, sight singing, and harmony, are considered an important part of the course. Through the course, students develop the ability to recognize, understand, and describe basic materials and processes of tonal music that are heard or presented in a score. Development of aural skills is a primary objective. Performance is also part of the curriculum through the practice of sight singing. Students understand basic concepts and terminology by listening to and analyzing a wide variety of music. Notational skills and fluency in reading music scores with basic materials are also emphasized. Students will be prepared to take the AP Music Theory Exam in May. There is no prerequisite for this course.

FORENSICS

Forensics is the art of persuasive public speaking and debate, encompassing various speech forms such as extemporaneous speaking, original oratory, and debates like Public Forum and Lincoln-Douglas. It emphasizes research, credible sources, and effective presentation skills. Forensics cultivates critical thinking, communication, and advocacy abilities in students. Participants learn to construct and deliver compelling arguments, analyze complex issues, and engage with diverse perspectives. It promotes confidence, eloquence, and the ability to articulate ideas persuasively in front of audiences. Through practice and competition, students refine their speaking techniques and develop valuable skills applicable in academic, professional, and personal contexts.

Forensics
Public Speaking

Forensics

Forensics I Honors

An elective open to grades 9-12, introducing forensic speaking including extemporaneous speaking, original oratory, and debates. Emphasizes research, credible sources, and presentation skills. Students gain confidence in speaking before groups with Standard English. Focuses on individual preparation and presentation styles, fostering stage presence and comfort. Prominently involves conducting grade-level research to ensure factually accurate content. Encourages participation in local/virtual tournaments to apply learned skills.

Forensics II Honors

This class builds upon Forensics I, demanding increased student preparation and time commitment. Emphasizes elevated-level preparation and presentation across various speech forms. Continues focus on research, credible sources, and tournament participation based on merit.

Forensics III Honors

Continuing from previous levels and focusing on local and national tournament experience, this course emphasizes administrative, organizational, and performance aspects. Criteria include performance, mentoring, organization, and writing skills. Involves extensive research and credible source usage. Encourages tournament attendance and training to judge events.

Forensics IV Honors

This is an advanced course in forensic speaking, focusing on tournament experience and performance. Continues emphasis on research, credible sources, and tournament judging training. Encourages participation in tournaments throughout the year

Public Speaking

Public Speaking I Honors

This class is open to grades 9-12, covering major concepts of public speaking. Emphasizes research, credible sources, and various speech genres. Encourages competition in speech events.

Public Speaking II Honors

This course builds on Public Speaking I, with intensified focus on preparation and presentation. Emphasizes research, credible sources, and tournament participation based on merit.