General Music 8013 .5 credit
This one-semester elective fulfills the Freshmen Fine Arts msuic requirement. General Music is a comprehensive course designed to build a strong foundation in musical understanding and appreciation. Students will develop basic music literacy and theory skills, explore introductory guitar techniques, and gain an appreciation for music's historical and spiritual significance. The curriculum specifically examines church music traditions to foster a greater love for God’s gift of music and enhance the Lutheran student's informed participation in worship.
Concert Choir 8020 1.0 credit
This one- or two-semester elective fulfills the Freshman Fine Arts music requirement. Concert Choir is a one or two-semester lower-level choral elective for freshmen and sophomores. This group performs for formal concerts at MVL, chapel services during the school day, the MSHSL Large Group Music Contest, and other music opportunities.
Band 8023 1.0 credit
This elective fulfills the Freshman Fine Arts music requirement. Band is a two-semester course open to all students with at least one year of instrumental experience. Students without instrumental experience may gain membership to the band after basic study of an instrument has been completed. The band will perform at concerts and other selected events.
A Cappella Choir 8030 1.0 credit
A Cappella Choir is a two-semester advanced-level choral elective for juniors and seniors. Students rehearse choral works of various styles; develop vocal skills, sight reading, and interpretation skills. The primary functions of this choral ensemble are to participate in regularly scheduled concerts, periodic chapel services, and singing in worship services of our Association congregations.
Fundamentals of Art 8051 .5 credit
Fundamentals of Art is a one-semester course giving an introduction to basic principles of visual art. Students make projects dealing with aspects of line, shape, value, texture, and color. This course is the entry-level art course and is a prerequisite to other art courses.
Drawing 8052 .5 credit
Drawing is a one-semester course dealing specifically with observational skills and composition. Students produce works of art using a wide variety of drawing techniques and tools to develop accuracy, craftsmanship, and expression. Subjects include still life, landscape, copying masterpieces, portraiture, and the human figure. Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Art
Graphic Design 8053 .5 credit
Graphic Design is a one-semester course in which students use computers to explore one’s creative voice and produce original designs. Students will receive training in industry-standard imagery software and timeless elements of good design. This course will include a study of typography, color theory, photo manipulation, composition, creative problem-solving, and working as a design team. Students work to produce designs to advertise and supplement MVL events. Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Art
Ceramics I 8054 .5 credit
Ceramics I is a one-semester course in which students explore various methods of making pottery. Students will make vessels with a variety of handbuilding methods and the wheel. Glazing and firing are also introduced in this course. Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Art
Ceramics II 8055 .5 credit
Ceramics II is a one-semester course continuing from Ceramics I. Students develop a personalized building method by focusing on craftsmanship and content. Students will be introduced to advanced techniques such as plaster moldmaking, relief sculpture, collaborative work, and Raku firing. The class will share responsibilities for firing, mixing, and studio maintenance. Prerequisites: Fundamentals of Art and Ceramics I
Painting 8057 .5 credit
Painting is a one-semester course focused on watercolor and oil painting. Students work with watercolor in a progression of transparent layers, and oil painting in a progression leading from general to specific. Brush control and color mixing are also emphasized. Prerequisites: Fundamentals of Art and Drawing
Advanced Placement (AP) Studio Art 8059 1.0 credit
AP Studio Art is a one-credit, two-semester course in which students work to produce a comprehensive portfolio. AP Studio Art students will be expected to submit a Drawing, 2-Dimensional Design, or 3-Dimensional Design portfolio to be judged by official AP readers. Portfolios need to satisfy three criteria: Investigation, Experimentation, and Communication. This course is available to students who have completed the prerequisites and have obtained instructor approval. Prerequisites: Fundamentals of Art and successful completion of three semester-long Studio Art classes.