Performing Arts

Honors A.C.E.S Music (Acceptance, Caring, Empowerment)

Course Number:  955101H

Prerequisites: Beginning-level music class (band, choir, or orchestra); Sophomore/Junior/Senior standing

Credits: 1                      

A.C.E.S aim is to break down some of the barriers that exist by pairing up students with a "buddy" during a music class. The goal is to pair students together during class activities so they can work together throughout the year. If you want to be a buddy, you need to be outgoing, energetic, and willing to give to others. The class is about you encouraging your buddy to do their best by being the best model you can be, caring enough to get them involved and empowering them to be a part of the school community, not just being in the school.  For all ACES class journaling about your experiences in the class and around the school with your buddy will be part of your experience. This course can fulfill a Fine Arts graduation requirement. 

BAND PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Band at jones is an exciting, engaging and robust fine arts program where students learn to play and master any of over 30 instruments. More than just a class, each band is part of the overall band community. Beginning, Concert, and Jazz Bands combine to perform at school events throughout the year including spirit activities, basketball games, parades, festivals, and our winter and spring concerts. Made up of 3 different classes and totalling over 100 students, the band is a great place to meet new people and make lifelong friends. Come see our world class facilities featuring a panoramic view of the city, state of the art equipment, secure lockers and four practice rooms.

Honors Beginning Band 

Course Number: 938101H 

Prerequisites: n/a

Credits: 1                

In Beginning Band, students learn to play flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba or percussion. Students will learn the fundamentals of sound production, how to read standard notation, and gain experience performing in a large ensemble. Each student will be provided a rental, instrument, workbook and folder. No experience playing a band instrument required. 2-4 after school performances per year.

Honors Concert Band I, II, III, & IV 

Course Number: 952101H (first year), 952201H (second year), 952301H (third year), 952401H (fourth year)

Prerequisites: Beginning Band or audition with instructor; each successive year requires successful completion of the previous year  

Credits: 1

In Concert Band, students continue developing their technique and musicianship on flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion. Students will perform a wide variety of music from orchestral adaptations and traditional concert band music to experimental works and movie scores. Students will gain experience performing in varied time and key signatures, playing in different styles, and exploring advanced technique on their instrument(s). Each student will be provided with a rental instrument, workbook, and folder.  4 - 8 after school performances per year.

JAZZ BAND                                

Honors Jazz Band I, II, III, IV

Course Number: 944101H (first year), 944201H (second year), 944301 (third year), 944401H (fourth year) 

Prerequisites: Beginning Band or Orchestra; all new students and rhythm section instruments (Guitar, Bass, Drum Set, Piano, and Vibraphone) are subject to audition; each successive year requires successful completion of the previous year  

Credits: 1                                                                    

In Jazz Band, students learn to perform various jazz styles while playing flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, guitar, piano, drum set, bass,and vibraphone. Students will perform daily in the large group, developing their music theory, rhythmic literacy, improvisation skills, and understanding of jazz styles. As well, students will play in small combos of 5 - 10 musicians, where students lead rehearsals and make creative decisions about their assigned repertoire. Perform at world class jazz venues, festivals, competitions and more! Each student will be provided a rental, instrument, workbook and folder. 4-8 after school performances per year. 

Honors Beginning Choir

Course Number: 956101H 

Prerequisites: n/a

Credits: 1  

Fees: $40              

This course is open to any student. Students enrolled in this course will focus on foundations of vocal development, music reading skills, music writing skills, music improvisation skills and stage presence.  Repertoire for the course will include a wide variety of vocal music in one, two, and three parts.  Students will present their work at a minimum of two choir concerts during the year.  At completion of the course the student will be prepared to sing in Eagle Singers (Intermediate Choir). 

Honors Intermediate Mixed Choir I & II (Eagle Singers)

Course Number: 959101H (first year) 959201 (second year) 

Prerequisites: Audition with instructor; each successive year requires successful completion of the previous year 

Credits: 1  

Fees: $40                 

Enrollment in Eagle Singers is by audition only.  Students in this course can independently hold a vocal part while two or more different parts are also sung.  Students will continue to build upon their skills in music reading, writing, and improvisation.  Eagle Singers will participate in a minimum of two choir concerts during the academic year, but they may also participate in additional choral events.  During this course students will sing intermediate level repertoire, learn more advanced vocal techniques, and consciously mature as musicians.  At completion of the course the student should be prepared to sing in the Concert Choir. 

Honors Advanced Mixed Chorus I, II, III, & IV (Concert Choir) 

Course Number: 966101H (first year), 966201H (second year), 966301H (third year), 966401H (fourth year) 

Prerequisites: Audition with instructor; each successive year requires successful completion of the previous year 

Credits: 1  

Fees: $40                         

Enrollment in Concert Choir is by audition only.  Students in this course are able to independently read and learn music without hearing it; they understand advanced music theory including chordal analysis and accompaniment as demonstrated by composition.  Students in this course will have reached a mature level of musicianship and stage presence.  Concert Choir will participate in a minimum of three choir concerts during the academic year, and will likely participate in additional choral events.  This course will continue to build upon the repertoire and vocal techniques acquired in Beginning Choir and Eagle Singers.  Students may repeat this course

Honors Dance Performance I

Course Number: 901001H 

Prerequisites: n/a

Credits: 1

This course introduces students with limited or no prior dance experience to the process of preparing, creating, performing and responding to dance works.  Students will be introduced to the four foundational Elements of Dance:  the tools of the body, space, time and energetic quality.  This class investigates how those elements are applied across diverse dance styles, developing technical and choreographic skills.  Field trips and in-class presentations provide opportunities to analyze peer and professional performances.  Students in Dance I perform in the fall and spring dance concerts. Dress code:  Jones t-shirt  and black pants/leggings.  Juniors and seniors may take Dance I for a PE and/or Fine Art credit.

Honors Dance Performance II

Course Number: 901201H 

Prerequisites: Dance I or audition with instructor (email Ms. Foshay to set up an audition) - prior dance experience required to audition

Credits: 1 `                     

This course continues the work begun in Dance I, pushing the technical and creative development of the dancer.  This class emphasizes the development of dance technical skills in Modern, Ballet, West African and related styles.  In addition, dancers will work extensively on developing composition through participation in choreographic projects and guest artist residencies, and analytical skills through field trips and in-class presentations.  Students in Dance II perform in the fall and spring dance concerts.  Dress code:  Jones t-shirt and black pants/leggings. Juniors and seniors may take Dance II for a PE and/or Fine Art credit.

Honors Dance Performance III

Course Number: 901301H 

Prerequisites: Dance II or audition with instructor (email Ms. Foshay to set up an audition) -  significant prior dance experience required to audition 

Credits: 1                    

With a focus on cultivating and communicating each student’s artistic identity, Dance III will focus on creative projects that challenge students to create solo work, or contribute meaningfully to collaborative peer choreography.  Dance III students train in Modern and Contemporary dance technique, in addition to other dance styles.  Dance III includes special opportunities to create and present work in addition to participating in the two JCP Dance concerts. Dance III helps prepare students considering college and careers in dance by attending college and professional dance events. Dress code:  Jones t-shirt and black pants/leggings.  Juniors and seniors may take Dance III for a PE and/or Fine Art credit.

Honors Dance Performance IV

Course Number: 901401H 

Prerequisites: Dance III or audition with instructor (email Ms. Foshay to set up an audition) -  significant prior dance experience required to audition 

Credits: 1

Dance IV gives space for students to be both artists and leaders.  Work in Dance IV is student-centered and has an emphasis on creating, directing and producing dance.  Students choreograph for their own bodies as well as direct choreography to be performed by peers using a variety of creative processes and themes.  With an emphasis on refining and communicating artistic identity, students in Dance IV will work with guest artists and mentors to choreograph, teach and analyze dances, as well as investigate college and career goals in dance and dance-related fields.  Students are also expected to participate in additional performances and rehearsals outside of class time as established by the instructor.  Students are expected to dedicate additional preparation time outside of the classroom, and attend additional rehearsals and performances as established by the instructor.  Students in Dance IV perform in, create for and help produce the fall and spring dance concerts.   Dress code:  Jones t-shirt  and black pants/leggings.  Juniors and seniors may take Dance IV for a PE and/or Fine Art credit.

Dual Credit Modern Dance

Course Number: 907401A

Prerequisites: Dance II or audition with instructor (email Ms. Foshay to set up an audition) -  prior dance experience required to audition; Minimum GPA of 2.5, 90% attendance rate

Credits: 1

For students interested in focusing their dance training on one style for the year and representing Jones at performance opportunities around the city.  This class emphasizes instruction through a fusion of American modern techniques and styles.  Fundamentals including basic floor skills, concepts of weight, traveling sequences, placement, and terminology will prepare students to perform both professional and student-created choreography. The history of modern dance and aesthetic standards of dance are explored through movement, lecture, and concert attendance. Writing assignments, field trips and performance opportunities both on and off campus will be part of the course. This course awards dual credit through Harold Washington College.

Honors A.C.E.S Dance (Accepting, Caring, Empowering Students)

Course Number:  986102H (first year); 986202H (second year)

Prerequisites: PE I and PE II; Department approval; Available to juniors and seniors (taking it for a second time)

Credits: 1

A.C.E.S Dance is all about creating community between general education students and diverse learners at Jones. Our aim is to break down barriers by creating an inclusive, accessible community to explore music, dance and movement. Students will pair up with a "buddy" to collaborate together in a variety of movement activities, developing friendship, positive interaction and coordination skills. In addition, students will participate in the course by leading parts of the class and allowing their interests to help guide class activities. Everything we do is modified to bring everyone in the class together regardless of skill; masterful dance skills are not required to succeed in this class.  To be a buddy, you need to be flexible, energetic, and willing to give care and patience to those around you.  The focus is on encouraging our diverse learners to come out of their shells and dive into the wonderful world of dance.  If you want to make a difference in your school community and the life of another, this is the class for you.

Honors Beginning Guitar

Course Number: 971101H

Prerequisites: n/a

Credits: 1  

This course is open to any student. Students will learn a variety of guitar skills preparing them with the tools to play any musical genre. Playing technique in this course will emphasize development of finger strength and speed, proprioception, and ergonomic hand positions. Students will primarily learn to read guitar music written in tablature and standard notation, then finally introducing chords in the 4th quarter. All assessments will take place during class time; there is no homework for this course. Students will perform playing assessments in small groups and individually. A school guitar is provided for each student. No previous experience is required.

Honors Intermediate Guitar

Course Number: 971201H

Prerequisites: Beginning Guitar or audition with the instructor 

Credits: 1

Honors Intermediate Guitar is an opportunity for students to continue developing their skills from Beginning Guitar. Instruction takes place on our classroom set of electric guitars although students are encouraged to bring their instrument from home. Students will learn barre/power chords and scales, understand music theory, develop their musicianship, and perform songs from multiple different genres. Students will have opportunities to perform both in small groups (Rock Band format) and in our full class guitar ensemble after school 4-8 times throughout the year. Students with prior experience will also have the opportunity to perform on drum set, bass guitar, and vocals.

Honors Advanced Guitar

Course Number: 972101H

Prerequisites: Intermediate Guitar or audition with the instructor 

Credits: 1

This course is designed for students to develop advanced skills on their guitar including: improvisation, alternate & sweep picking, fingerstyle, tapping, double stops, and bending. Students in advanced guitar will exhibit a comprehensive understanding of music theory, standard and iconic notation, chord voicings, and scale shapes. Advanced Guitar meets at the same time as Intermediate Guitar, and students will be tasked with leading small group rehearsals, working individually with intermediate students, and arranging songs for rock bands. Students will have opportunities to perform both in small groups (Rock Band format) and in our full class guitar ensemble after school 4-8 times throughout the year. Students with prior experience will also have the opportunity to perform on drum set, bass guitar, and vocals.

Honors Beginning Orchestra

Course Number: 937101H

Prerequisites: n/a

Credits: 1  

This is for students who want to learn to play violin, viola, cello or bass. The class is for those with no experience or for those who have experience but who may need a review and reinforcement of music reading, playing fundamentals and technique that are vital for lasting musical development.  Students of any grade level are welcome. This Orchestra presents 2 concerts per year. It's fun to play an instrument!

Honors Intermediate Orchestra (Eagle Strings)

Course Number: 947111H (first year), 947121H (second year), 947131H (third year), 947141 (fourth year) 

Prerequisites: Beginning Orchestra or audition with instructor 

Credits: 1

This is for students with some experience playing a stringed instrument. This Orchestra is for students who already have an understanding of basic music reading; right-hand technique including detache, spiccato, staccato and slurring; and left-hand technique including the five major finger patterns. Instruction offers continued focus on the refinement of tone quality, technique, aural skills and music literacy. Private lessons are encouraged but not required. This Orchestra presents 3 concerts per year.  Students may play in this Orchestra for more than one year.  Live music is best - join an orchestra! 

Honors Advanced Orchestra (Concert Orchestra) COURSE #947101H, 947201H, 947301H, 947401H

Course Number: 947101H (first year), 947201H (second year), 947301H (junior year), 947401H (senior year), 996521A (dual credit) 

Prerequisites: Audition with instructor; For Dual Credit: Minimum GPA of 2.5 and 90% attendance rate

Credits: 1

This is the most advanced Orchestra at Jones and is composed of students who play violin, viola, cello, or bass.  Most students in the Concert Orchestra are taking private lessons.  This Orchestra performs many times throughout the year, both formally and at various school events. Instruction concentrates on advanced technical and expressive skills in an ensemble-focused setting.  Membership in the Advanced Orchestra is selective as advanced reading, musicianship and student responsibility are required.  Contribute your talents - LIVE MUSIC IS BEST! Dual Credit offered through City Colleges of Chicago.

Honors Drama I   

Course Number: 973101H

Prerequisites: n/a

Credits: 1                       

Drama I is the entry level theater course.  Students analyze the multidisciplinary aspects of the entire theatrical experience through individual and group performances.  The class examines how the voice and body are used in performance through public speaking, storytelling, pantomime and improvisation. Students also write short plays and sketches, explore theatrical literature and history, and attend productions at Jones throughout the year.  Students learn to draw from their experiences with performance techniques and apply them to academic presentations.  

Honors Drama II

Course Number: 973201H

Prerequisites: Drama I 

Credits: 1                           

In Drama II, students, working as an ensemble, train in voice, speech, movement, and acting techniques, while surveying all aspects of theater and entertainment arts such as script analysis, dramaturgy, directing, stagecraft, dance, and design. Modeled on national professional performance training programs, students practice performance and design techniques with classic and contemporary literature; research, interpret, analyze, create, and perform scenes with interdisciplinary connections. Students identify theatre occupations and training at the collegiate level, or explore undergraduate and career applications of theatre, entertainment, and media skills.                                                                                                

Honors Theatre Production I

Course Number: 982101H

Prerequisites: Drama II + 20 hours of service on a production as an underclassman.  

Credits: 1          

Rotating bi-annual curriculum with Production II. Students explore dramatic work and develop techniques for bringing directing and design concepts from the page to the stage in class, while also playing a hands-on role in the theatre production season. Students begin to shape their own style and voice while studying various dramatic forms from throughout history as well as global theatre traditions. Students attend performances at professional theatre companies throughout the region and take field trips to local production studios. 

Honors Theatre Production II       

Course Number: 982201H

Prerequisites: Theatre Production I 

Credits: 1          

Rotating bi-annual curriculum with Production I. Students explore dramatic work and develop techniques for bringing directing and design concepts from the page to the stage in class, as well as playing a hands-on role in the theatre production season. Students begin to shape their own style and voice while studying various dramatic forms from throughout history as well as global theatre traditions. Students attend performances at professional theatre companies throughout the region and take field trips to local production studios.