Fine Arts

CONCERT CHOIR (full year)
The Upper School’s beginning choir welcomes all students in grades 9-12 who enjoy singing and making music with friends! There is no experience necessary for this ensemble. Students will learn to stand tall, raise their voice, and support each other in their growth. Singers will discover the fundamentals of music, sight-reading, and vocal pedagogy through the performance of a variety of music. Students must be able to match pitch by the beginning of the class. See instructor for approval. All are welcome in grades 9-12. Students may re-enroll in Concert Choir multiple semesters/ years or can move up to Chamber Choir after Concert Choir.

HONORS CONCERT CHOIR (full year)
The Honors option for Concert Choir is offered to continuing choral students who demonstrate exceptional ability in their knowledge of music and in performance, both in daily classroom work and in public performance. In addition to the requirements of Concert Choir, students choosing the Honors option must meet higher performance goals and broader, more rigorous expectations, including fundamentals of music theory and music history. There may be additional opportunities to perform as representatives of the school community throughout the year. Details are available in the spring each year from the instructor. Honors students must apply and successfully complete an audition each to be accepted into this program. All are welcome in grades 9-12. Students may re-enroll in Honors Concert Choir multiple years.

HONORS CHAMBER CHOIR (full year)
Prerequisites: one year of Upper School Concert Choir (or an equivalent) and by audition
The Honors Chamber Choir is Country Day’s top vocal group. This elite choral ensemble performs a variety of challenging pieces for concerts within the school community, the greater Charlotte area, and the Southeast. Students are accepted into this choir after one year of Concert Choir and by audition. Building upon principles taught in the Concert Choir, students continue their study of the fundamentals of music, sight-reading, music theory, and vocal pedagogy. Additionally, Honors Chamber Choir students will engage in monthly coaching sessions with the director. This choir is open to grades 10-12; students may re-enroll in Honors Chamber Choir multiple years with the approval of the director.

SYMPHONIC BAND (full year)
Prerequisites: Participation in the MS Band program OR audition and permission of the instructor
This performing ensemble, comprised of brass, winds, and percussion instruments, is designed to develop the potential of the instrumental musician and to foster an appreciation of music. Students continue to develop their ensemble and musicianship skills through the preparation of music from the symphonic band literature for performance in concert twice during the school year. There may be additional opportunities to perform as representatives of the school community throughout the year. Students may re-enroll in Symphonic Band multiple years.

HONORS SYMPHONIC BAND (full year)
Prerequisites: Current enrollment in MS or US Symphonic Band, by audition
The Honors option for Band is offered to continuing band students who demonstrate exceptional ability in their knowledge of music and in performance, both in daily classroom work and in public performance. In addition to the requirements of Symphonic Band, students choosing the Honors option must meet higher performance goals and broader, more rigorous expectations, including fundamentals of music theory and music history. There may be additional opportunities to perform as representatives of the school community throughout the year. Details are available in the spring each year from the instructor. Honors students must apply and complete an audition each year to be accepted into this program. Students may re-enroll in Honors Symphonic Band multiple years.

ORCHESTRA (full year)
Prerequisites: Participation in the MS orchestra program OR audition and permission of the instructor
This performing ensemble includes violin, viola, cello, double bass, and piano, and is designed to develop the potential of the instrumental musician to foster an appreciation of music. Students continue to develop their ensemble and musicianship skills through the preparation of music from the string orchestra and chamber music literature for performance in concert twice during the school year. There may be additional opportunities to perform as representatives of the school community throughout the year. Students may reenroll in Orchestra multiple years. Students wishing to play piano must complete an audition with the instructor.

HONORS ORCHESTRA (full year)
Prerequisites: Current enrollment in MS or US Honors Orchestra, by audition
This Honors option for orchestra is offered to students who demonstrate exceptional ability in their knowledge of music and in performance, both in daily classroom work and in public performance. In addition to the requirements of Orchestra, students choosing the Honors option must meet higher performance goals and broader, more rigorous expectations, including fundamentals of music theory and music history. Details are available in the spring each year from the instructor. Honors students must apply and successfully complete an audition each year to be accepted into this program. There may be additional opportunities to perform as representatives of the school community throughout the year. Students wishing to play piano must successfully complete an audition with the instructor.

INTRODUCTION TO PIANO (first semester, repeats second semester)
Introduction to Piano is for the absolute beginner with no previous piano experience, or for those who wish to bring back skills they have lost from early childhood. This course includes the basic skills of reading music and understanding popular chord notation. Class time is divided between discussion and lecture portions, practice time at the piano, and performing for each other. A portion of the class involves duet playing. Open to grades 9-12.

SUPERSONIC: PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE (first semester, repeats second semester)
Do you like the awesome beats of Blue Man Group or STOMP? You will love this course as it focuses on performing music written specifically for the percussion ensemble. Students will learn notation and the techniques of all types of drums and percussion instruments, including traditional and non-traditional drumming. In addition, the class may construct instruments to be played within the group. No musical experience necessary. This course may be repeated each semester for credit. Open to grades 10-12, second-semester 9th graders.

AP MUSIC THEORY (full year)
Prerequisites: qualification based on performance in the current music class and proficiency exam
The goal of AP Music Theory is to develop the students’ ability to recognize, understand, and describe the basic materials and processes of music as heard or presented in a score. This goal is achieved by integrating aspects of melody, harmony, texture, rhythm, form, history, and style while engaging with listening and written exercises. A student's ability to read and write musical notation is fundamental to this course, and a student must possess basic performance skills in voice or on a musical instrument to be admitted. Students must also score well on an entrance exam, which includes a general knowledge of musical terminology, basic music theory, and sight-singing. Open to grades 10-12 after receiving approval from the instructor.

CHIME ENSEMBLE (First semester, repeats second semester)
Get ready to ring and shine! In this course, you’ll explore the exciting world of hand chimes while learning to read music notation and building musical fundamentals along the way. But it’s not just about learning the basics. The Chime Ensemble is a collaborative musical experience where every player contributes to the sound of the group. No prior musical training is required, just a willingness to learn and be part of the team. Together, we create beautiful, resonant music that is far greater than the sum of its parts. Beyond performance skills, playing hand chimes encourages mindfulness, reduces stress, and provides a refreshing mental reset during the school day. Many students find that making music together is both energizing and deeply calming, a creative outlet that supports overall well-being. Throughout the course, you’ll explore a wide-ranging repertoire spanning different styles, including well-loved favorites and popular hits that you’ll recognize and enjoy playing. Whether you're ringing your very first note or refining your performance skills, this class is all about making music, growing together, relieving stress, and having fun while you do it! This course may be repeated each semester for credit. Open to grades 10–12, second-semester 9th graders.

ACTING/DIRECTING I (First Semester)
In this course, students dive into imagination, emotion, and intellect as they begin the foundational work of the actor and director. By exploring the universality of theatre, students develop essential tools of the craft and begin the journey of uncovering a playwright’s creative vision. Through the investigation of the “who, why, where, when, and how” of character, students gain a disciplined understanding of voice, speech, movement, and the actor’s use of self (body, mind, and lived experience). Emphasis is placed on process, ensemble, and creative exploration.
Note: Students who have successfully completed Acting I may apply for the Directing I portion of this course. See qualification requirements for details.

ACTING/DIRECTING II (Second Semester)
Prerequisite: Acting/Directing I
This advanced course deepens students’ understanding of both acting and directing through a focused exploration of process and technique. Students create original work while developing their own artistic voice. Through a workshop format, students actively apply these techniques to scripts across a range of genres, examining the relationship between text, interpretation, and performance. Emphasis is placed on analytical rigor, collaborative practice, and refinement of craft. Students who have completed Acting I may apply for the Directing II portion of this course by November 20 prior to enrollment. See qualification requirements for details. Open to grades 10–12.

THEATRE WORKSHOP (second semester)
Prerequisites: Completion of a Level 2 theater course and permission of the instructor.
This class is designed for students who are looking for more advanced work in one of the following areas of theater: Acting, Directing, or Improv. Students will participate in a capstone project that incorporates all theatrical skills learned and practiced through advanced-level classes. Open to grades 10-12.

IMPROVISATION I (First and Second Semesters)
This course provides students with an in-depth introduction to the art of improvisation through the practice of responding spontaneously to ideas and situations. Students develop skills in inductive discovery, nonverbal communication, risk-taking, ensemble building, and critical thinking, while learning to apply improvisational thinking beyond the stage and into daily life. Assessment is based on participation, class projects, daily performance work, and presentations.
Open to grades 9–12.

IMPROVISATION II (Second Semester)
Prerequisite: Improvisation I
This advanced course deepens students’ exploration of improvisation, emphasizing refined performance skills, creative risk-taking, and the development of original work. Students expand their understanding of how improvisational techniques inform the broader creative process.
The course also examines historical influences and current trends in improvisational theatre and acting. Assessment is based on participation, research, written reflections or journals, daily performance work, and presentations. Open to grades 9–12.

IB THEATRE ARTS (SL- full year, HL- first semester)
Please see the IB section for more information.

The Visual Arts curriculum at Country Day offers students an in-depth study of art principles and processes in several media. Students typically enter 2D Art, Sculpture, or Design at Level I. Students may explore a variety of Level I courses to fulfill their three-semester graduation requirement. However, many students progress through all three levels of a particular strand in preparation for an AP or IB Studio Art experience. Completion of Level III in any area and a successful portfolio evaluation are required for placement in an AP Studio Art class.

2D ART I (first semester, repeats second semester)
2D Art I builds the basics of two-dimensional art production, artistic investigation, art criticism, and art history. Students explore printmaking, painting, drawing, and mixed media to learn how to creatively solve artistic problems around teacher-directed themes. Individual reflection and experimentation are encouraged as students build a base knowledge of the elements and principles of design. Open to grades 9-12.

2D ART II (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: 2D Art I
2D Art II builds upon techniques and concepts introduced in 2D Art I. Students continue their investigation of drawing, painting, printmaking, and mixed media to express personal ideas. Art criticism and art history are integral components of the course in order to help students evaluate and articulate their views on art. Students are encouraged to set individual goals and work with teachers to attain those goals. Creative problem-solving and individual experimentation are encouraged. Open to grades 9-12.

2D ART III (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: 2D Art II
2D Art III builds upon the techniques and concepts of 2D Art II as students work toward building a portfolio of artwork. Advanced techniques in drawing, painting, and printmaking are introduced as students are encouraged to develop a personal voice through their art. Students learn about contemporary artists through gallery visits, research, reading, and reflection. Greater student independence is fostered as students select the subject matter, materials, and methods to develop their images. At this level, the students continue to build skills, work on compositional problems, and experiment with multiple media. Open to grades 10-12.

2D ART IV (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: 2D Art III
2D Art IV is intended for advanced students who wish to continue building technical skills and develop their own portfolio. Independent exploration of subject and media is critical to student success. Students enrolling in level IV will be scheduled with another 2D Art class.

DESIGN/ PHOTOGRAPHY I (first semester, repeats second semester)
Design I expands the foundation for photographic and digital media study in the Upper School. The course introduces digital photography and two-dimensional image manipulation on the computer. Students develop a working knowledge of computer-based design and aesthetic theories. This course emphasizes the study of the elements of art and principles of design, composition, color theory, art criticism, and art history. Individual problem-solving and decision-making are emphasized throughout Design I. Open to grades 9-12.

DESIGN/ PHOTOGRAPHY II (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: Design I
Design II continues the study of digital media begun in Design I by building upon the student’s technical skill and foundation of knowledge. Traditional black and white photographic processes are introduced in Design II. Art criticism and art history are integral components of the course to help students evaluate and articulate their views on art. Students are encouraged to set individual goals and work with the teacher to attain those goals. Creative problem solving and individual experimentation are encouraged. The student’s work in Design II is more experimental and based on informed choices. Open to grades 9-12.

DESIGN/PHOTOGRAPHY III (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: Design II
Design III is intended for the serious design student who may wish to pursue AP Art in the junior or senior year. Students strengthen their computer and photographic image-making skills learned in Design II and continue to pursue issues in art criticism and art history. Students work individually and in groups to solve realistic design problems such as the creation of logos, signs and symbols, products, and videos. Students build a portfolio of artwork that shows experience with different media and techniques. Knowledge of design in relation to culture, history, other disciplines, and careers is encouraged through gallery visits, research, reading, and reflection. Students have the option to concentrate on computer-generated work, camera/darkroom-based expression, or a combination of the two. Open to grades 10-12.

DESIGN/PHOTOGRAPHY IV (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: Design III
Design IV is intended for advanced students who wish to continue building technical skills and develop their own portfolio. Independent exploration of subject and media is critical to student success. Open to grades 10-12. Students enrolling in level IV will be scheduled with another Design class.

SCULPTURE I (first semester, repeats second semester)
This course is designed to reinforce and build on knowledge and skills developed at the elementary and middle school levels. It is the foundation level for three-dimensional art throughout the Upper School. This course emphasizes the study of the elements of art and principles of design, color theory, vocabulary, art criticism, art history, machinery knowledge, and safety in the art room. The course is devoted to investigating various sculpture processes, procedures, theories, and historical developments. Students will explore a variety of three-dimensional media, including glass, wire, plaster, wood, metal smithing, and clay. Students are provided a strong foundation in design, sculpture, and vocabulary in a teacher-structured environment. Problem-solving and decision-making are emphasized throughout Sculpture I. Open to grades 9-12.

SCULPTURE II (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: Sculpture I
Sculpture II builds upon the student’s technical skill and foundation of knowledge developed in Sculpture I. Various fine crafts processes, procedures, and theories are presented in a problem-solving manner, which allows for independent choices and personal solutions to problems. Students research three-dimensional art to gain an appreciation for art of the past and present. Students continue their study of the elements of art and principles of design, color theory, vocabulary, and art history while producing a variety of sculptural works. Open to grades 9-12.

SCULPTURE III (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: Sculpture II
Sculpture III presents students with an in-depth approach to the study of three-dimensional processes and techniques, aesthetic issues, art criticism, and art history. It is designed for the serious sculpture student who may wish to pursue AP Sculpture in their junior and senior year. The teacher will help students set goals and develop work habits similar to those of professionals. Knowledge of sculpture in relation to culture, history, other disciplines, and careers will be promoted through visual, verbal, and written means. Students are encouraged to develop a personal style and philosophy of three-dimensional art. In Sculpture III, students will begin to build a portfolio that focuses on technical quality, personal style, growth, and function. Open to grades 10-12.

SCULPTURE IV (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: Sculpture III
This class advances students who wish to continue building technical skills and develop their own portfolio. Independent exploration of subject and media is critical to student success. The teacher will help students set goals and develop work habits similar to those of professionals. Knowledge of sculpture in relation to culture, history, other disciplines, and careers will be promoted through visual, verbal, and written means. Students are encouraged to develop a personal style and philosophy of three-dimensional art. In Sculpture III, students will begin to build a portfolio that focuses on technical quality, personal style, growth, and function. Open to grades 10-12. Students may re-enroll in multiple years.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STUDIO (first semester)
Prerequisites: completion of 2D II, Design II, or Sculpture II
Architecture presents students with the foundational concepts and skills necessary for designing functional and aesthetic spaces. The course focuses on the principles of architectural design, including form, space, order, and precedents, with an emphasis on both historical and contemporary examples. Students will explore the process of creating architectural solutions, from conceptual design to physical modeling, while developing a deeper understanding of how built environments shape our daily experiences. Open to grades 10-12.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STUDIO II (second semester)
Prerequisites: Architecture Design Studio I
This advanced high school architecture course builds on foundational design skills to explore building materials, construction methods, and three-dimensional spatial design. Students will learn through hands-on projects, Maker Space fabrication, and real-world applications. Emphasizing real-world applications and set design techniques, the course guides students through the full architectural process, from concept development to physical modeling, preparing them for college-level study in architecture, engineering, or design. Grade Level: 11th-12th grade

SPECIAL PROJECTS IN VISUAL ARTS (first semester, repeats second semester)
Prerequisites: Level IV Design, 2D Art, or Sculpture; approval of the teacher.
This semester-long class is designed for experienced, highly motivated, dedicated art students specializing in Design, 2D Art, 3D Art, or a combination thereof. The class is for students who want to advance but do not wish to take AP or IB Art. Students should be motivated to work independently in and out of the classroom, as they will be responsible for selecting the subject matter, materials, and methods used to develop their ideas. The sketchbook is an integral part of the art-making process, and a minimum of two hours per week (homework) is spent on sketchbook work. This includes recording and developing ideas; investigating and critically analyzing work; practicing drawing and design skills, etc. Students are expected to study Art History, aesthetics, and the artwork of other cultures and historical time periods as it relates to their own work. A complete sketchbook as well as a portfolio of finished work, archived digitally and collected in an actual portfolio, are due at the completion of the course. Students are expected to use different media, techniques, and genres and to master at least one medium. Open to grades 11-12.

AP STUDIO: 2D ART (full year)
Prerequisites: Successful completion of level III or IV 2D Art courses, and portfolio evaluation
AP Studio 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, which are composed of Sustained Investigations and Selected Works sections. This course emphasizes making art as an ongoing process of informed and critical decision-making. AP students must be self-directed with the ability to produce works of art at an accelerated pace and with exceptional technical skill. Concentrations within the class may be on drawing or two-dimensional design. Open to grades 11-12. This course may be repeated to explore new portfolios.

IB Art (HL) (two years)
Please see the IB section for more information. IB Art Portfolios are due in February of the sophomore year for admittance.

AP STUDIO: DESIGN/PHOTOGRAPHY (full year)
Prerequisites: Successful completion of level III or IV Design courses, and portfolio evaluation
AP Design is intended for students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of digital and photographic arts. Students develop portfolios for evaluation that are composed of Sustained Investigations and Selected Works sections. This course emphasizes informed and critical decision-making. AP students must be self-directed with the ability to produce works of art at an accelerated pace and with exceptional technical skill. Open to grades 11-12. This course may be repeated to explore new portfolios.

AP STUDIO: SCULPTURE (full year)
Prerequisites: Successful completion of level III or IV Sculpture course, and portfolio evaluation
AP Sculpture is designed for students who are interested in the practical experience of art. Students submit portfolios for evaluation at the end of the school year that include Sustained Investigations and Selected Works sections. The AP portfolio is intended to address sculptural issues and purposeful decision-making, utilizing the elements and principles of art in an integrative way. AP students must be self-directed with the ability to produce works of art at an accelerated pace and with exceptional technical skill. Open to grades 11-12. This course may be repeated to explore new portfolios.

AP ART HISTORY (full year)
Prerequisites: qualification based on grade of 85 or better in current history class grade
This course is designed to introduce students to significant works of art and architecture in both the European and Non-European tradition. The goal is to promote the understanding and enjoyment of art while developing students’ abilities to examine works of art intelligently by acquainting them with the major forms of artistic expression historically and in their own time. Students examine and develop an appreciation of art from cave paintings to the twenty-first century, in addition to the art of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Open to grades 11-12.

YEARBOOK (full year)
Prerequisite: Instructor approval for grades 9 and 12
Students produce the school’s yearbook, The Postscript, over the course of the first three quarters of the school year. The remaining quarter is spent planning the Spring edition for the following year. Student editors organize small groups to compile and complete sections of the yearbook, including senior ads, athletics, divisional highlights, student photos, clubs, and more. All students learn the essentials of page layout, photo and copy editing, and writing. Student photographers must be able to cover events during the day, after school, and on the weekends. Above all, meeting deadlines and teamwork are essential skills. Open to grades 9-12. Note: rising seniors must have at least one year of yearbook or permission from the teacher to enroll.

YEARBOOK EDITOR, HONORS (full year)
Prerequisite: Previous experience; Application and Instructor approval for grades 10 and 12
The Honors option for Yearbook is available to returning staff members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the creation of Postscript. These students have shown strong organization, punctuality, and a commitment to preserving the school’s history. In addition to the standard yearbook class requirements, the Honors option requires staff members to take on leadership roles as team leaders and/or editors, managing greater responsibilities, meeting more rigorous expectations, and consistently meeting deadlines. Work outside of class will be required to ensure the successful completion of the yearbook. All returning or former yearbook staff members are welcome to apply, but must complete an application and be accepted in order to participate.