Fine Arts

Choral Music 

Concert Choir

Full year. The Upper School’s beginning choir welcomes all students in grades 9–12 who enjoy to 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 performance of a variety of music in this ensemble. All are welcome in grades 9–12. Students may re-enroll in Concert Choir multiple years or can move up to Chamber Choir after one year in Concert Choir.

A Cappella Ensemble

Second semester. Prerequisites: audition. Modeled after collegiate a cappella ensembles, this class allows students to take ownership of their learning by selecting, preparing, and potentially arranging their own music. Students examine a wide variety of a cappella choral literature, ensemble skills, sight-reading and vocal pedagogy. Students are accepted into this choir after an audition with the instructor. This ensemble is open to grades 9–12. Students may re-enroll in A Cappella Ensemble multiple semesters.

Chamber Choir

Full year. Prerequisites: one semester of Upper School Concert Choir (or an equivalent) and by audition. The Chamber Choir is Country Day’s top vocal ensemble. This elite choral ensemble performs a variety of challenging music for concerts and functions throughout the school, the community, and the southeast. Students are accepted into this choir after one year of Concert 
Choir (or an equivalent) by audition. Building upon the principles taught in the Concert Choir, students continue their study of the fundamentals of music, sight-reading, music theory and vocal pedagogy. This choir is open to grades 10–12; students may re-enroll without audition in Chamber Choir multiple years.

Honors Chamber Choir

Full year. Prerequisites: one semester of Upper School Concert Choir (or an equivalent) and by audition. Honor Chamber Choir is offered to juniors and senior members of the Chamber Choir who, in addition to fulfilling the requirements of regular level Chamber Choir, must meet higher performance goals and broader, more rigorous expectations including fundamentals of music theory, music history, and research into current musical events. Students are also required to participate in extra performances beyond the regular level requirement throughout the year and are expected to take on leadership roles within the group. This choir is open to grades 11–12; students may re-enroll without audition in Honors Chamber Choir multiple years.

Instrumental Music 

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 concert 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 (formerly Concert) Band and 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 successfully complete an audition each year in order to be accepted into this program. Students may re-enroll in Honors Symphonic Band multiple years.

String Orchestra

Full year. Prerequisites: Participation in the MS band program OR audition and permission of the instructor. This performing ensemble includes violin, viola, cello and piano and 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 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 String Orchestra multiple years. Students wishing to play piano must successfully complete an audition with the instructor.

Honors String Orchestra

Full year. Prerequisites: Current enrollment in MS or US Honors Orchestra and audition. This year long course 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 String 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 in order 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.

Music Theory & Production

Digital Music Studio

First semester. Digital Music Studio teaches students to produce and arrange music. Students create original melodies, learning to notate the melodies by hand and through the use of music notation software. After editing their compositions into a final draft, students record their work into multi-tracks and augment it into a finished product through the use of MIDI, multi-track recorders, and effects processors. As students acquire the necessary skills, they have the option to develop their melodies into musical arrangements suited for specific types of performing groups. Some knowledge of piano and/or reading music is helpful but not required for this course. Open to grades 9–12.

Digital Animation and Film Production

First semester, repeats second semester. This course offers students the chance to create and edit animated and real-time film shorts (2-3 minutes). In a hands-on, collaborative environment, students learn about and explore the numerous visual, dramatic, musical and technical opportunities for visual storytelling. Project by project, students build their artistry of storyboarding, writing, producing, directing, and editing their own short films. Students learn to use Adobe Animator, Vegas movie editor, video cameras, props, and on-location shooting, among other skills. 

Foundations of Music

Second semester. Prerequisites: At least one year of CCDS music instruction and successful completion of an entrance evaluation and a basic foundation in reading music. This course is a pre-requisite for AP Music Theory and will introduce students to the theory, history, and genres of music. Topics will include elements of music (rhythm, meter, tempo, syncopation, melody, scale, pitch, dynamics, timbre, texture, harmony and form) as well as genres such as Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, 20th Century, and beyond. Open to grades 10–12.

AP Music Theory

Full year. Prerequisites: qualification based on performance in 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 in order 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 completing successful proficiency exam.

IB Music SL

Two years. Please see the IB section for more information.

Production Concepts

First semester. Students in this class will benefit from experiential learning by solving actual problems associated with CCDS theatrical productions and fictional productions. Specifically, the class will gain skills in set design, directing concepts, stage make up, costuming, stage management, and prop building. This course emphasizes the “backstage” side of theatre as opposed to performance.

Acting/Directing

First semester. In this class, students dive into their imagination, emotion, and intellect. By making each actor aware of the universality of theatre, the tools of acting are enhanced, developed, and learned. It is the beginning of the actor’s journey of exploration to uncover the creative vision of the playwright. In order to discover the “who, why, where, when, and how” of each character it is imperative the student actor understands the craft of acting. This course requires a disciplined approach to voice, speech, movement, and the actor’s ability to use “self” (body, mind, and experience). 

Acting/Directing II

Second semester. Prerequisites: Acting/Directing I. This more advanced acting class emphasizes the process of acting and directing. Actors will be introduced to a wide array of acting schools and approaches to a role and techniques, including Stanislavsky, Strasberg, Adler, Meisner, and the New School. However, the class activates processes so students discover his or her personal voice in the craft. Additionally, students explore scripts from all genres and look at the connection between written word, interpretation, and presentation. 
The class is run in workshop format where the concepts are put into practice. Open to grades 10–12.

Theatre Workshop

Second semester. Prerequisites: Any previous theater class. This class will provide a unique, hands-on experience in creating a production. Students will choose, direct, produce and perform a 40-minute show which will be presented during the semester at either the Lower of the 
Middle School, depending on the theme or script chosen. Students will participate in all aspects of the production and will have the option to create an original script. In additional to the practical components of producing a show, students will learn how theater can be used for 
social or political critique, entertainment, or impact. Open to grades 10–12.

Improvisation I

First and second semester. This course is designed to give students an in-depth look at the art of improvisation by learning how to give an unscripted response to an idea or situation. Students will gain inductive discovery, nonverbal communication, risk-taking, team building, critical thinking skills, and understand how to integrate improvisational thinking into their daily lives. While performing improvisation will be the focus of this course, students will also engage in their own sketch writing skills. Students will study both short form and long form improvisation while researching successful improvisational actors (such as Robin Williams, Steve Carell, Mindy Kaling, Amy Poehler and Eddie Murphy). Additionally, this class will explore historical aspects and current trends in improvisation and improvisation groups/art forms. Student assessment will be determined based on participation, class projects, daily activities, and presentations. Open to grades 9–12.

Improvisation II

Second semester. Prerequisites: Improvisation I. This course is designed to give students an advanced exploration of the art of improvisation by learning how to give and unscripted response to an idea or situation. Student will gain an in-depth discovery of understanding 
how to integrate improvisational skills into the creative process. While performing improvisation will be the focus of this course, students will also engage in forming and idea from quick thinking to a concrete, rehearsed format. Students will study both short form and long form 
improvisation while writing and performing sketch. Additionally, the class will explore historical aspects and current trends in acting and improvisation groups/art forms. Student assessment will be determined based on participation, research papers, daily activities, journals, 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. This class introduces the basics of two-dimensional art production, artistic investigation, art criticism, and art history. Students explore printmaking, painting, drawing, and mixed media in an effort 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 to 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 skill 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 provides a foundation level 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 to the course in order 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. Students must have access to a 35mm, single lens reflex, film loading camera to participate in the class. Students will also be required to purchase photographic paper for developing.

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 are 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. Students must have access to a 35mm, single lens reflex, filmloading camera to participate in the class. Students will also be required to purchase photographic paper for developing.

Design/Photography IV

First semester, repeats second semester. Prerequisites: Design III. Design IV is intended for advanced students who wish to continue building technical skill 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, 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 or senior year. The teacher will help students set goals and develop work habits similar to that 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 skill 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 that 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.

Special Projects in Visual Arts

First semester, repeats second semester. Prerequisites: Level IV Design, 2D Art, or Sculpture; 
approval of application portfolio required for admittance. This semester-long class is designed for experienced, highly motivated, dedicated art students specializing in Design, 2D Art, 3D Art, or a combination therein. 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 breadth and concentration 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.

IB Art (SL, HL)

Two years. Please see the IB section for more information.

AP Studio: Design/Photography

Two years. 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 breadth and concentration 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.

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 breadth and concentration 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.

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 and 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.