Thornton Academy Program of Studies 2-24- 25 | Page 33

perform dances in different mediums , such as musical theater , film , and video . Class assignments and outside tasks may include reading , writing , choreographic work , rehearsal , and performance projects . Please note that this is a performance-based course and that outside rehearsals / performances are required coursework .

Dance III *

1 Credit • Grades 11 & 12 Prerequisite : Dance II and / or teacher recommendation

Students will build on the skills and techniques gained in Dance I and Dance II . This course stresses the development of strength , flexibility , and endurance of the physical body ; the ability of students to work cooperatively with others ; and the maturation of performance skills , including the range of dynamics , projection , and expression . Also included are technical requirements , such as lighting , sets , costuming , performance spaces , and the documentation and notation of dances . Please note that this is a performance-based course and that outside rehearsals / performances are required coursework .

Choreography Lab *

0.5 Credit • Grades 10 , 11 & 12 Prerequisite : Dance I and / or teacher recommendation

In this semester-long course , students will expand upon their knowledge of choreography by exploring new ways of composition through time , space , and energy studies . Students will create work upon themselves and their peers using their expanded understanding of composition . The course will include critical analysis of individual , peer , and professional work as well as studio work . Reading and writing assignments may be required in conjunction with course projects . Feedback sessions between students will be a regular part of this class and participation will be an important portion of the student ’ s grade . Please note that this is a performance-based course and that outside rehearsals / performances are required coursework .

Performance and Repertory : Dance Company *

1 Credit • Grades 10 , 11 & 12 Prerequisite : By audition only

This is an opportunity for experienced dancers to gain performing and choreographic experience . Students will refine kinesthetic and spatial awareness , working toward greater musicality and expressiveness with a variety of choreographers . The company will perform at Thornton Academy as well as at other schools and venues . Students will learn about approaches to building a repertory , as well as the many technical aspects of performance and company management . Please note that this is a performance-based course and that outside rehearsals / performances are required coursework .

MUSIC

Piano Lab

0.5 Credit • Grades 9 , 10 , 11 & 12

Open to all who want to learn piano , this class is taught on MIDI keyboards with a computer program to guide students through the basics of reading music , and the proper techniques of playing the piano . Learning to play the piano is the perfect stepping-stone to playing any instrument as students will learn theory that can be applied to all music . Since access to the computer program is only available during class , regular attendance is critical to success in this course . You must be a beginner , with no previous experience .

Songwriting

0.5 Credit • Grades 9 , 10 , 11 & 12

During this class , students will explore the ingredients of songwriting and audio production from various music genres . The semester begins with an introduction to digital music and audio recording , and culminates with an independent student-designed songwriting project . Previous experience with a musical instrument or choir is recommended , but not required .

Music Theory

1 Credit • Grades 9 , 10 , 11 & 12

In this course , students will learn skills that include reading music , identifying notes , playing basic rhythms , and recognizing scales , chords , and their structure . Online tools and paper resources will assist students as they learn to read and associate the written and aural music in this class . Students will have the opportunity to delve into basic composition techniques as they acquire more understanding and skills .

AP Music Theory

1 Credit • Grades 10 , 11 & 12 Prerequisite : Music Theory and / or teacher recommendation

This yearlong class is designed for students who have an intense interest in music theory and / or who plan to major in music in college . Students will focus on musical terminology , notation skills , basic compositional skills , score analysis , and aural skills . This course also includes more sophisticated and creative tasks , such as melodic and harmonic dictation , sight-singing , and the realization of figured bass . Students will be well prepared for and required to take the AP Exam .

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