Visual & Performing Arts

Prerequisite: None
Grades 7, 8 Semester

The beginning theatre course helps students to develop communication skills, self-confidence, and performing abilities. As a more extended introduction to Drama beyond the Wheel, projects include group and solo pantomimes, improvisation, character study, short monologues, scene work, and a fully produced short play. Training in make up techniques, costuming, properties, and stage management introduces the student to technical aspects of theatre. Very little rehearsal outside of class time is required. There will be at least one evening performance for students to present some of their work for family and friends.

Prerequisite: Drama 1A
Grades 7, 8 Semester

Advanced Drama study is for highly motivated students who wish to continue developing their theatre skills. The course provides frequent opportunities for classroom performance, including mime, improvisation, short plays, Shakespeare, audition quality monologues, short student written and directed video, oral interpretation, storytelling, and scene work. Students receive training in directing, design, choreography and stage combat. Field trips and guest speakers augment the classroom experience. Students will be expected to commit some after school time for rehearsals as needed, and will perform for the school community as well as for family and friends. The course changes each semester depending on enrollment and class experiences; Drama 1B may be repeated.

Art 1A

Grade 7,8 Semester

Interested in creating different styles and types of art while you explore painting, drawing, sculpture, and digital art making? Then, Art 1A is for you. We complete a number of different projects designed to explore various media and art forms from a variety of cultures throughout the world. Digital self portraits, clay animal sculptures, sunflower paintings, and tons of other assignments will challenge experienced artists and engaged people who are eager to learn new approaches in art. Art 1A is a prerequisite for all next level art classes: Ceramics, Multimedia Art, and Art 1B.

Prerequisite: Art 1A
Grades 7, 8 Semester

Prerequisite: Art 1A. If you enjoy taking art and want more time to draw, sculpt and paint, then take Art 1B. It is also the foundation for more “hands on” projects that are a bit more accelerated and challenging in Art 1B. You will learn step-by-step techniques of realistic and imaginary drawing, acrylic painting on canvas, printmaking, and ceramic sculpture. You will have opportunities to express your creativity and explore a variety of techniques that are more advanced than Art 1A. Projects may include two dimensional techniques in pastel drawing, building large clay boxes, realistic pencil drawing, and block relief printing. You may repeat Art 1B if you wish and tackle more ambitious work suited to your advancing skills and experience.

Prerequisite: Art 1A
Grades 7, 8 Semester

Prerequisite: Art 1A. CLAY, CLAY, CLAY! If you would like to learn more about clay construction, then this class is for you! You will create functional clay pieces, such as a vase or mug using hand building techniques, and you will also gain knowledge about using clay for sculpture on a larger scale. You will learn about a variety of surface decoration techniques and you will discover exciting options for applying texture and color to your ceramic pieces. In addition to clay projects, you will also explore a variety of sculpture methods and procedures, such as paper maché and wire sculpture. Increased emphasis will be placed on craftsmanship and the application of the elements and principles of art.

Prerequisite: None
Grades 7, 8 Semester

In multimedia art, students use digital technology to realize the truest potential of their art. Students explore digital photography, drawing, and painting. They use computers, iPads, and projectors as well as programs like Photoshop and Procreate. Students will complete lessons in digital photography and painting, digital manipulation, wood transfers, stop motion and flash animation, sculpture, and large scale public arts projects. There is no prerequisite for this class.

In 7th and 8th grade Choir, you will be placed in one of the following ensembles:

In the Greene Choirs, students will develop and improve their voices as well as learn about music through performance. Students will perform a wide variety of choral music, representing many different genres and languages. Opportunities exist for those who wish to sing solos or participate in small ensembles. The Choirs will perform in formal concerts, as well as other activities that have included attending a CMEA music festival, a tour to elementary schools, performances and exchanges with other local choirs. Students will be expected to attend occasional after school rehearsals and all evening performances.

Curriculum

The Greene Choirs are for students who love to sing! Choir is open to any student regardless of previous singing experience. It is a year-long course and a year-long commitment. Students will improve and develop their voices, learn to read music and develop their musical ear, and perform together in a supportive environment. The choirs perform a wide variety of choral music, including songs from multiple genres that represent a multitude of languages from around the world.

Performances

The Greene Choirs will perform in multiple performance events each year. We often have the opportunities to perform with other choirs, guest artists, and teachers from around the Bay Area, state, and country. Our choirs will perform in concerts, elementary school tours, festivals, evaluations, and other events in the community, region and state.

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Intermediate Level (see description below under Symphonic Band)

Prerequisite and Placement

If you play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument, you are strongly encouraged to continue your musical development in one of Greene’s outstanding band ensembles!

Curriculum

In each band, students spend daily rehearsals working on the musical fundamentals taught within a historical and cultural context. Weekly sectionals with professional music specialists provide opportunities to develop individual playing skills. You will work on pieces from various periods and cultures, including classical, popular, folk music, rock and jazz styles.

Instrumentation

In order to achieve full instrumentation and make the band sound better, the directors may request that some students switch to different instruments. If you are interested in trying a more unusual instrument, such as the oboe, bassoon, tenor or baritone saxophone, horn, baritone, or tuba, you can discuss this with the director, and arrange for an opportunity to try the instrument out. If the change is appropriate and your parents agree, we will provide an instrument for you to use.

Performances

7th and 8th grade bands each perform at all school concerts, march in the May Fete Parade, and go “on tour” to the elementary schools to perform assembly programs. There may be additional performance opportunities.

Additional Activities

Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble are two outstanding extra-curricular groups. They meet before school once per week. If you are interested, auditions are held in September for saxophone, trumpet, trombone and rhythm section players. If you do not play one of these instruments, but would like to be in a jazz group, talk to the band directors as soon as possible. Often, students who have played the flute or clarinet in band can easily learn the saxophone during the summer months. Audition information will be announced during the second week of school. Please note that you MUST be signed up for Band, Orchestra, or Choir to be in one of the jazz groups. Additional learning activities may include master classes, workshops, guest conductors, visiting composers, live performances, and collaborative activities with other classes or departments.

The 7th and 8th grade Advanced Orchestra is for string players interested in continuing to build their skills, technique, and musical knowledge through performance on the violin, viola, cello, or string bass. Responsibility, cooperation, self-discipline, and concentration are developed alongside musical skills and understanding through rehearsal four times a week.

Prerequisite and Placement

If you play a string instrument, you are strongly encouraged to continue your musical development in the Advanced Orchestra. Students typically have at least two years of experience on their instrument but less is acceptable if the student is getting private lessons or extra help.

Curriculum

Students in Orchestra work on expanding their string techniques, ensemble skills, and musical knowledge by exploring and performing a wide variety of music of differing styles, musical periods, forms, and genres from classical to current pop music.

Performances

The Orchestra performs in several formal concerts throughout the year as well as additional opportunities such as school assemblies, elementary school tours, and other opportunities as they arise. All evening performances are a required part of the class.

Additional Activities

Students enrolled in the orchestra program are eligible for the Chamber Orchestra or small chamber ensembles for additional fun, challenge, and performance opportunities.