Symphonic Band

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Prior band experiences

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

You will learn concert literature for intermediate to advanced instrumentalists, to perform and present work in public as an instrumentalist, solo performance techniques, intermediate theory and ear training. You will participate in large ensemble performance by combining with all ensembles in the marching and pep bands for many highly visible public performances. You will be performing a variety of music at our four major evening concerts, community performances, and festivals, as well as showing an understanding of music theory and ear training. Practice of your instrument (outside of rehearsal time and in a consistent manner) as well as good daily attendance and participation will be necessary for success in this ensemble You will have an increased appreciation for the role of arts in our culture and history. Attendance and participation in all performances is required.

Wind Ensemble

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Audition and prior experience

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

You will learn an extensive amount of concert literature for advanced instrumentalists, to perform and present work in public as an instrumentalist, solo performance techniques, advanced music theory and ear training. You will participate in large ensemble performance by combining with all ensembles in the marching and pep bands for many highly visible public performances. You will be performing a variety of music at our four major evening concerts, community performances, and festivals, as well as showing an understanding of music theory and ear training. Practice of your instrument (outside of rehearsal time and in a consistent manner) as well as good daily attendance and participation will be necessary for success in this ensemble. You will have an increased appreciation for the role of arts in our culture and history. Ownership of performance attire and participation in all performances is required.

Orchestra

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Prior Orchestra experience

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

The orchestra program is designed for various levels of performance experience with excellence in performance as the goal. The orchestra participates in various festivals, tours and competitions. Music fundamentals will be integrated in the curriculum focused through high quality literature. Workshops and clinics will be offered to give the students opportunities to work with outstanding musicians and performers. You will learn aesthetics and art criticism, how to create, present and perform musical works of art, historical and cultural perspectives, music theory and ear training. You will show what you have learned through the following required projects and performance tasks: group performance literature, four major evening concerts as well as other performances and community appearances. Ownership of specified performance attire and participation in all performances is required.

Adv Orchestra

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9,10,11,12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Prior Orchestra experience

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

You will learn an extensive amount of concert literature for advanced string players to perform and present in public, solo performance techniques, advanced music theory and ear training. You will perform a variety of music at our four major evening concerts, community performances, festivals, as well as showing an understanding of music theory and ear training. Practice of your instrument, outside of rehearsal time and in a consistent manner, as well as good daily attendance will be necessary for success in this ensemble. You will have an increased appreciation for the role of arts in our culture and history. Ownership of specified performance attire and participation in all performances is required.

Intro to Jazz

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9,10,11,12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Instructor Consent

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

Introductory to Intermediate Jazz. You will learn a variety of jazz literature, and some popular, on an intermediate level. You will learn how to perform and present work in public as an instrumentalist, improvisation skills, and solo performance techniques. You will show what you have learned by: performing a variety of jazz for our four major evening concerts, as well as showing an understanding for jazz concepts including improvisation. Practice of your instrument (outside of rehearsal time and in a consistent manner) as well as good daily attendance and participation will be necessary for success in this ensemble. Attendance and participation in all performances is required

Jazz Ensemble

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9,10,11,12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Instructor Consent

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

You will learn a variety of jazz literature, and some popular, on an intermediate level. You will learn how to perform and present work in public as an instrumentalist, improvisation skills, and solo performance techniques. You will show what you have learned by: performing a variety of jazz for our four major evening concerts, community performances and festivals, as well as showing an understanding for jazz concepts including improvisation. Ownership of specified performance attire and participation in all performances is required. Practice of your instrument (outside of rehearsal time and in a consistent manner) as well as good daily attendance and participation will be necessary for success in this ensemble. Attendance and participation in all performances is required.

Milwaukie Men’s Choir

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9,10,11,12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: None

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

Attendance at performances is required. Join the Milwaukie Men’s Chorus and discover how fun it is to learn to sing well! This course is designed to help male students develop their singing voices through the study of specially selected music. Popular music as well as classical music will be used and basic skills in music will be developed through the study of music theory. The class allows a high level of interaction with the instructor. It is recommended that students take this class before auditioning for advanced ensembles. All styles of music and music literacy are studied; students in all grades may enroll. Activities taking place outside of class time are required.

Treble Ensemble

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9,10,11,12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: None

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

Join the Treble Ensemble and discover how fun it is to learn to sing well! This course is designed to help female students develop their singing voices through the study of specially selected music. Popular music as well as classical music will be used and basic skills in music will be developed through the study of music theory. The class allows a high level of interaction with the instructor. It is recommended that students take this class before auditioning for advanced ensembles. All styles of music and music literacy are studied; students in all grades may enroll. Activities taking place outside of class time are required.

Bella Voce

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 10,11,12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Audition & Theory Test

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

An auditioned class, Bella Voce is one of the select choirs at MHS. It is made up of women’s voices that want the experience of singing advanced music with a smaller group. Students participate in contests/performances designed for small ensembles. This course may be taken concurrently with A-Choir or Treble Ensemble. Students should be enthusiastic, have excellent musical potential and be self-disciplined. Vocal tests are part of student evaluation. Private voice lessons recommended. Required clothing will be chosen and required for the concert attire. Attendance at all performances is required.

A-Choir

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 10,11,12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Department Approval through Audition

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

This large varsity concert ensemble studies advanced choral literature of many styles. Rehearsals are concentrated, dynamic, and fast-paced. Student musicianship is developed throughout the year and self-discipline is essential. Prospective students must exhibit a proficiency in vocal music skills such as sight-singing, vocal production, and the ability to identify and sing intervals and scales. A high level of positive personal conduct is expected, as is commitment to team and building relationships. Some popular music will be used, however, an emphasis will be placed on classical literature. The group performs outside of the school for contests, festivals, and community events. Vocal tests are part of student evaluation. Private voice lessons are recommended. Activities taking place outside of class time are required. May be taken only after audition with director.

Pony Pipers

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 10,11,12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in A-Choir and Audition

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

A small, very select choir of advanced singers who represent MHS & MAA by performing at luncheons, meetings, hospitals and other community activities. A variety of styles are studied, including pop, jazz, and a cappella music. A strong emphasis is put on choreography and dynamic musical performances. This course is designed for the exceptionally talented and knowledgeable music student who strives to be an outstanding performer. A high level of positive personal conduct is expected, as is commitment to team and building relationships. Significant time commitment is required. Activities taking place outside of class time are required. Purchase of performance attire is required.

Lady Mustangs: Women’s Show Choir

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9, 10,11,12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Concurrent Enrollment in Treble Ensemble, Bella Voce, and/or A-Choir and Approval through Audition

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

An advanced group of dynamic female singers who are looking for an opportunity to sing music from various genres and choreograph dance movements to correspond with the music. This course offers you the chance to reinforce your knowledge of vocal production, music theory, and sense of rhythm through the study of music and dance. A high level of positive personal conduct is expected, as is commitment to team and building relationships. Participation in all after-school activities is required. Purchase of performance attire is required.

Art 1

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9, 10,11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: None

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

Art 1-2 is a general art course offering a wide variety of art concepts, media and techniques. Students discover the elements and principles of design through drawing, painting, art history and art appreciation. An emphasis will be on composition, creativity and the development of problem solving skills. Students will learn how to critique and evaluate their work and the work of others. The skills that you gain in composition, design and layout will help you create, evaluate, and communicate about projects for school, work and at home. Problem solving, critical thinking, decision making and time management skills developed in this class are transferable to any occupation or work setting. This is a lab class, so consistent effort and participation is crucial for your success.

Art 2

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Art 1-2 or Instructor Consent

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

This course is designed for the second year art students who have an interest in continuing many of the concepts, processes, skills and techniques introduced in Art 1-2. A wide variety of media will be used in this class, including charcoal, scratchboard, watercolor, acrylic paint, silk-screening and sculpture. Students will focus on historical periods of art, creativity and craftsmanship. Class discussions and critiques will be a component of this class. Skills that you gain in composition, design and layout will help you create, communicate about and evaluate projects for school, work and at home. You will also develop skills in problem solving and decision making.

Advanced Art

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Art 3-4 or Instructor Consent

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

Designed for the advanced art students who wish to further their studies in art. Students will continue projects that explore concepts, vocabulary and technique, as well as work on an individual basis with the instructor on a variety of projects. Creativity and individual styles will be the focus as students begin developing portfolios and exploring colleges and careers that are available in the arts. Students will be encouraged to work on projects for the school and outside community

AP Studio Art

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Adv. Art or Instructor Consent

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

The A/P Studio Art program makes it possible for the highly motivated high school student to do college-level work. You will develop a portfolio of work to be submitted and evaluated by the college board. Your portfolio will contain three sections; quality, breadth and concentration. The work load expectations for this course are high and outside work time is required.

Ceramics

Credit: .5

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Course Length: Semester

Prerequisite: None

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

In this class beginning students learn a variety of hand-built methods, surface decorations and glazing techniques to produce sculptures and pottery. Intermediate and advanced students will learn how to throw on the potter’s wheel and advance their skills in hand-building methods. Emphasis for all levels is on correct techniques, use of tools, vocabulary, craftsmanship, creativity and problem-solving skills. Students will also learn how to critique and evaluate their work and the work of others. Problem-solving skills, critical thinking, decision making and time management skills developed in this class are transferable to any occupation or work setting. This is a lab class, therefore, consistent effort and participation are critical for success.

Art & Technology

Credit: .5

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Course Length: Semester

Prerequisite: None

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

Are you inspired by cool graphics and exciting digital art? Art & Technology is a one-semester course that teaches art and graphics with a 21st century twist. Students will learn the principals and elements of design while they experiment with both traditional and alternative materials to create hand designed art work as well as computer aided graphic arts. Projects may include stenciling, printing/scanning, ‘Pop Art’, poster design, and magazine cover design and photo manipulations. This course is designed to help students learn specific technical skills needed in art using both fine and graphic art techniques as well as computer programs (Photoshop/InDesign/Illustrator). Students will create work that conveys personal voice and vision and they will build a strong portfolio of work that demonstrates growth, risk-taking, and a developing sense of design and craftsmanship. Art history will be infused into the course through looking at significant artists and designers of the 20th and 21st century. There are currently no Intermediate or Advanced levels beyond this one-semester Intro class.

Digital Photography

Credit: .5

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Course Length: Semester

Prerequisite: None

Fee: NCSD course/activity fees apply

This class is a beginner’s class teaching the basics and fundamentals of photography as fine art. You will examine and learn what makes a good photograph using the elements and basic principles of design. The class also focuses on how to get the most out of one’s camera and how to use editing and manipulation software (Adobe Photoshop Creative Cloud). A variety of subject matter will be explored including portraiture, landscape and macro photography. This class requires self-motivation and initiative as most photos will be taken as homework. During the lesson, photos will be uploaded, edited and manipulated using Photoshop and there will often be classroom discussion on Photography. At the end of the semester, students will receive a CD of their photography portfolio.

Stagecraft

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9, 10,11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: None

Fee: $12.00 make-up fee

You will learn script analysis, stage lighting, theatrical makeup techniques, scene and stage design and construction techniques. You will also learn properties design and construction techniques, and costume design and construction techniques. You will be working in a variety of theater-related areas such as backstage, costume, lighting, properties, and promotion.

Beginning Drama

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: None

You will learn basic performance vocabulary and skills; play structure, memorization techniques, and effective use of the actor’s voice, physical expressiveness, characterization, theater history, improvisational theater skills, basic technical theater skills, and script analysis.

Intermediate Drama

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Beginning Drama

You will continue to expand your theatre skills as you explore stage direction, auditions, script selection, creating characters, and musical theatre. You will learn what it takes to create a cohesive theatre production as you act with your fellow class members. Focus will be on the Jon Jory action based approach to creating character. Intermediate Acting students will be strongly encouraged to participate in the Oregon Thespians Regional Acting Competition in February, where they will be adjudicated by professionally trained acting judges.

Advanced Drama

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11, 12

Course Length: Year

Prerequisite: Intermediate Drama w/ C grade, Instructor consent

You will continue to expand your theatre skills as you develop your acting and characterization. Focus will be on the Sanford Meisner approach and the Constantin Stanislavsky “Method” approach to performance skills. Advanced Acting students will be required to participate in the Oregon Thespians Regional Acting competition in February, where they will be adjudicated by professionally trained acting judges.