2D Studio Art I

What constitutes a work of art? Is there anything really new in art? What is appropriation in the visual arts? How does one develop a unique and personal artistic style? This course sets the foundation of the visual arts experience: students not only address these questions, but they also develop their drawing and painting skills, address the key principles of design and learn elements of color theory. Since drawing is essential in the development of visual ideas, the primary focus of this course is to provide all students, including those with no experience, with the tools and skills to transform their observations and ideas into finished work. Using pencil, charcoal, ink, watercolor, acrylic, collage and printmaking, students progress through a series of increasingly complex exercises. To foster interdisciplinary learning, assignments and themes addressed in this course often align with the project-based curriculum offered in students' other academic coursework. In addition, artists selected as inspiration, from Hans Holbein to Kehinde Wiley, highlight cross curricular connections and guide students in the acquisition of skills and understanding of the elements and principles of design. Students develop their own artistic vocabulary and participate in frequent group critiques. In addition to developing finished work for exhibition at the end of each semester, students keep a sketchbook for problem solving and recording their ideas. 

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Full Year Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts

3D Studio Art I

In this full-year course, students will explore many different ways of creating art that occupy three-dimensional space. Through working with natural and synthetic materials, including wood, clay, metal, plaster, and stone, students will learn to utilize design principles with artistic intent and sophistication. The course introduces techniques such as construction, welding, carving, mold-making, and casting. Students will learn both hands-on and machine aided methods, and they will work with the resources available in the art studio and makerspace. They will also gain an understanding of the rich and diverse approaches that artists have used throughout history. While the focus of the class is on studio practice, class discussions and critiques will foster students’ ability to articulate their creative ideas and critically analyze each other’s work.

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts  

2D/3D Studio Art II

In 2D/3D Studio Art II, students explore several creative directions. In addition to creating art, they consider its meaning and importance, taking art theory and the contextual forces shaping artists’ work into account. Using a wide variety of materials, students explore drawing, painting, and/or sculpture. In drawing, students learn about creating depth and expressing ideas through observation, expressive mark-making, and experimentation. Extending these initial encounters to painting, students learn to work with watercolor, acrylic, and some oil-based materials. In sculpture, students have the option to use clay, carving foam, or plaster. Students are encouraged to consider how these different mediums can be blended to create new visual responses through mixed media. Color theory is explored in relation to all units of study. Students will learn how to critique their own work as well as engage in conversation with others about it. Sketchbooks are vital to the course and are the place where ideas can be developed and documented. Field trips to museums are arranged as is possible.

Prerequisite: 2D Studio Art I, 3D Studio Art I, or Instructor Approval Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Ceramics I A

Ceramics is one of the oldest human inventions and transcends culture and history in the creation of both functional and decorative art. In this course, students learn the essentials of working with clay. Students learn the process of transforming a slab of clay from greenware to bisque to a finished, glazed piece. Students are introduced to both hand-building techniques including pinch, coil and slab as well as throwing on a wheel. Students keep a sketchbook to develop their ideas derived from interdisciplinary collaboration as well as individualized in-class assignments.

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Ceramics I B

Ceramics 1B is a continuation of Ceramics 1A. Understanding the fundamentals of ceramics learned in Ceramics 1A, students embark on more challenging and independent projects.

Prerequisite: Ceramics I A Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

*Note: this course can be taken as a semester (Fall or Spring) or full-year elective. Ceramics 1A and 1B must be completed before taking Ceramics II

Ceramics II

In this course, students not only refine the skills developed in Ceramics I but they explore solutions to more complex and challenging visual problems. The focus of this course is the development of personal expression via experimentation with both surface and form. As students develop their own personal voice and style, they are encouraged to explore the connections with other coursework whether it be history, math or a world language. Through research and the exploration of contemporary ceramic artists, students develop their knowledge of both traditional ceramic techniques as well as mixed media options. Students keep a sketchbook to illustrate, record and articulate the progress of their work and the development of their ideas. Work is exhibited at the end of each semester.

Prerequisite: Ceramics I A and Ceramics I B Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts  

Ceramics III

The goals of this course are both to expand technical skills and conceptual approaches to the clay medium and to create a series of thematically aligned ceramic works. At the start of each semester students have the opportunity to work on complex and large scale architectural forms and learn more advanced wheel thrown techniques including lidded vessels, goblets and plates. In addition, students are introduced to a variety of clay bodies and glazing techniques allowing for further experimentation and exploration. As the semester progresses students will work closely with their instructor to develop the conceptual framework for a series of original ceramic pieces to be exhibited at the end of the semester. For students pursuing the Visual Arts Diploma, this course provides an excellent opportunity to begin the process of developing work for a college level portfolio or final exhibition.

Prerequisite: Ceramics II Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts  

Wheel Throwing 

This course can be taken at the introductory or advanced level and is designed for students who wish to focus solely on developing their skills on the pottery wheel. In addition to learning essential wheel throwing techniques: centering, throwing and trimming, the goal of this semester-long course is to use the pottery wheel as a tool in the development of  both functional vessels and artistic self-expression. Students begin the semester learning to throw a cylindrical form. As skills progress, students move on to more complex forms including larger vessels,  plates and lids. In addition, students learn  firing and glazing techniques. Using creative problem solving and acquired  technical skills, students are encouraged to combine and alter thrown forms to create original works of art and  develop their own personal artistic style.

Prerequisite: None; Counts as one semester of Ceramics for students who wish to pursue Ceramics II or Ceramics III.

Credit: ART Period: Semester Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts  

Printmaking

What are the processes behind some of our most iconic images like Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroe or Hokusai’s The Great Wave Off Kanagawa?  How have artists of past and present used printmaking to push forward their artistic vision, often interacting with the cultural, political, literary, or scientific ideas of their times? In this semester-long course, students will engage with a range of printmaking methods including intaglio, silkscreen, and relief printing. Through hands-on lessons, students will become familiar with ways of manipulating the tools and materials to achieve their artistic vision, while being encouraged to refine their own aesthetic language through open-ended projects. Class-wide discussions and critiques will strengthen students’ understanding of and connection to the art form’s rich history, as well as its impact on the world both within and beyond the visual art realm.

Prerequisite: Open to 10th Grade and Above Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts  

Illustration

From the caves of Lascaux to Harry Potter, people have used images to tell stories. In this course, students will explore various strategies to compose images that interpret, accompany, and enrich written works, ranging from ancient haikus to today’s headline article. Topics will include character development, comics/cartooning, editorial illustration, and/or picture book illustration. This course is open for both those with no prior experience as well as artists who wish to build on the skills and styles they have developed elsewhere.

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Car Design

In this hands-on course, students will explore the aesthetic and structural considerations of vehicle design, with a primary focus on cars. From sketching basic geometric shapes to sculpting accurate scale models, students will produce a body of work reflecting a clear understanding of proportion, volume, and surface design principles. They will explore various art-making techniques for preparing speedforms, orthographic drawings, and presentation models. In doing so, they will gain familiarity with a wide range of materials including graphite pencils, markers, digital rendering, and sculpting clay. Close examination of contemporary and historical car models will inform students as they identify design trends and challenges in today’s car industry. The year will culminate with students designing new vehicles for their unique, innovative concepts. This course is both for those who are passionate about cars and for those who wish to develop a fluid way of working across 2D and 3D art processes.

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts  

Digital Imaging I

In this course, students are introduced to the tools of digital imaging for artistic purposes. Students learn the basic operations of a digital camera and Adobe Photoshop as it applies to photography. Students develop the following skills: capturing an image with a digital DSLR camera (including an in-depth study of lighting strategies and the fundamentals of good image capture). Students also explore the basics of composition, manipulating perspective, f-stops and shutter speeds. Students gain an in-depth understanding of Adobe Photoshop. Students explore image manipulation as well as collage techniques while also debating the ethical responsibilities that accompany such visual alterations. Students learn to answer questions visually while honing their problem-solving skills. The course is supplemented with weekly explorations of notable artists and photographers who have redefined our understanding of the medium in today’s art world along with an examination of the intersection between historical documentation and artistic expression. 

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts, Engineering

Digital Imaging II

The Advanced Digital Imaging course is designed to extend the knowledge and skills acquired in Digital Imaging I and provide students with the opportunity to explore more advanced techniques and concepts. In this course, students will engage in creative and technical explorations of digital image manipulation, compositing, and advanced visual storytelling. Emphasis will be placed on the development of a personal artistic style, critical thinking, and problem-solving within the digital imaging domain. This course requires a strong foundation in digital imaging principles and software proficiency. Students are encouraged to bring their creative ideas and a willingness to experiment with advanced digital imaging techniques. The successful completion of this course will provide you with an expanded skill set and the ability to create compelling and visually engaging digital imagery.

Prerequisite: Digital Imaging Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts, Engineering

Graphic Design I

This yearlong course is designed to stimulate students’ analytical and creative thinking abilities through visual communication. Students are introduced to Adobe’s Creative Suite, most notably Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator as foundational tools. Students will also use drawing to elaborate ideas. Students learn the fundamentals of design including composition, page layout, typography, pre-press and web considerations. Through a variety of class discussions, projects, research, and collaborations, students complete unique projects that highlight their understanding of the elements of art and design. Students also have the opportunity to explore design thinking, devising research methodologies that enhance their work in other disciplines and as they explore their interests. The course also includes a look at design history, the rapidly changing digital landscape and the ethical considerations underpinning all design questions. Field trips are organized when feasible and appropriate.

Prerequisite: 2D Studio Art I or Instructor Approval Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts, Engineering 

Graphic Design II

This course is a continuation of ‘beginning’ Graphic Design with the goal of deepening student skills and understanding through more complex problem-solving scenarios. Experimentation, research, conceptual thinking, and process are emphasized through project-based work. Students become more independent and gain confidence in their respective responses to the questions posed. Knowledge of and exposure to contemporary design issues and graphic design history build on the prior course and are important components of this course. Students are expected to expand their proficiency in all aspects of the design process, including the use of their sketchbook for brainstorming and concept development, their understanding of typographic language, technical skills, critical thinking, collaboration, and formal presentations. Students explore current design practice and enjoy conversations with professionals near and far. Field trips are organized when feasible and appropriate.

Prerequisite: Graphic Design I or Instructor Approval Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts, Engineering

Introduction to Filmmaking

This course deals with visualization and cinema literacy skills. Drawing heavily on a wide array of historical examples, the course will examine the many expressive strategies potentially usable in the creation of moving image art forms: image construction and manipulation, editing, composition, sound, narrative, and performance. Understanding the editor’s job of combining images, words, and audio into a cohesive and engaging body of work is essential for all filmmakers. Adobe’s Premiere Pro has become the preferred software choice for many professional editors. Throughout the course, an emphasis will be placed on story and storytelling. In addition to analyzing the works of others, students will also produce their own projects - putting theory into practice.

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART, CAT Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

Filmmaking II

In the Advanced Filmmaking course, young cineastes are invited to elevate their craft and vision. This hands-on course is designed for experienced film students who are passionate about cinema and desire to create skilled cinematic works. It delves deep into the art and techniques of filmmaking, challenging students to refine their storytelling skills, explore advanced visual aesthetics, and embrace the creative journey. The course is a platform to turn vision into reality, allowing students to manifest their vision into well-crafted narratives. 

"The camera makes everyone a tourist in other people's reality, and eventually in one's own." — Susan Sontag

Prerequisite: Introduction to Filmmaking Credit: ART, CAT Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

Virtual Game Design & Development

Endless Studios is a massively open, globally distributed youth game-making studio. GCDS has partnered with Endless to offer a virtual game design and development program. The program does not require any pre-requisite skills or game development experience and is open to all students interested in understanding how video games are made.

During the course, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of game-making, learning how to engage with different concepts and structures that can assist in making great games. Students will also learn to work within the industry-leading game engine, Unity. They will receive an introduction to core concepts, and have the opportunity to explore their interests and level-up their skills in coding, digital art, design, storytelling, project management, and more through the development of original games.

The Endless Studios Community Game Making Program is not a course, it's an authentic studio experience! Come join us! The course does not replace CS I or CS II. Please contact Mr. Campbell with any questions.

Prerequisite: none Credit: CAT, ART Period: Semester 

Diploma Credit: Engineering, Performing & Visual Arts

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

American Film History: Theory and Practice 

This team-taught interdisciplinary course will explore the world of film from multiple perspectives. Each week we will view a classic of cinema as homework, and devote 1-2 days engaged in close readings of individual scenes, related readings, and discussion, about which students will produce short essays. We will also devote 1-2 days a week to longer-term student projects, which will involve learning techniques of production necessary to produce short videos that react in some way to the assigned films. Directors whose work will be explored include Charlie Chaplin, John Ford, Martin Scorsese and Greta Gerwig. Students will practice a wide array of skills applicable across the arts and humanities.

Prerequisite: History 10 Credit: ART or HIST/SOC Period: Semester 

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Social Sciences programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

Word and Image - Arts Seminar

This one-semester elective brings together three subjects—in this case, Art, History, and Classics—under a thematic umbrella of "Word and Image: Ancient and Modern." (Students can choose which discipline for which they will get course credit, though the three will be integrated throughout.) Participants will begin the class together before rotating into separate tracks for units centered on each of these subjects and then coming back together in the final weeks of the course.

The theme for the 2024-2025 edition of Word and Image is "Ancient & Modern" (variously defined – or more specific, like the Roman and American empires).  The course will consist of three units. The first will examine the career and legacy of Julius Caesar from a variety of perspectives. This “life” unit will be followed by a “times” unit in which we explore a notable moment in the history of the ancient world, such as Periclean Greece or Augustan Rome. In the third unit, students will undertake the production of a piece of artwork that embodies the themes and issues we have been exploring. Through a series of projects that they complete in conversation with each other, students will acquire multi-dimensional perspectives on one of the most powerful forces in their everyday lives—and their futures. 

Prerequisite: English 10, History 10 Credit: ENG, HIST/SOC, ART Period: Semester

*This course is cross-listed between the English, Social Sciences, and Arts programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. The title of the course will reflect the credit selected (eg. "Word and Image -  Arts Seminar" for Arts credit). Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements. 

Modern American Art History

In this course, students will explore American history over the late-nineteenth and twentieth centuries through the analysis of art. Beginning with art in the Gilded Age and ending with Minimalism in the 1970s/80s, this course will show the changes in American culture and society through art movements and explore topics such as gender, race, social class, and politics. Through interdisciplinary class discussions, projects, presentations, and essays, students will develop their written and oral visual analysis skills, first focusing on specific pictorial elements and structure. This course will take advantage of Greenwich’s proximity to New York City and there will be up to three field trips to see artworks in person. As a final cumulative project, students will virtually curate and annotate their own exhibit of American art regarding an overarching course theme but with artworks from different movements. An essential element of this final project is their creation of their own that fits within the parameters of their show. Modern American Art is a half-year course open to eleventh and twelfth-grade students (those who have studied American history) and is cross-listed as an art and history class. 

Prerequisite: English 10, History 10 Credit: HIST/SOC, ART Period: Semester

*This course is cross-listed between the Social Sciences and Arts programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements. 

Independent Study in the Visual Arts

Undertaking an Independent Studies in Visual Arts is available to students whose passion or interest in a particular medium or topic exceeds the available course curricula. Students are required to plan and implement their proposed ideas – collaborating with faculty to design a semester or year-long project. Past projects have included Special Topics in Film, Photography, Cultural Expression in Art.  Students should have a minimum of one year of visual arts studies under their belt.

Prerequisite: Minimum 2 Semesters Visual Arts Coursework and Instructor Approval Credit: ART

Period: Semester, Full Year Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts

Introduction to Architecture I

We all experience architecture. The homes we live in, the schools we go to, the places where we work and play all bring us into constant contact with architecture. Given its prevalence in our everyday lives, architecture carries a great responsibility to facilitate the functions of our day-to-day living in a way that also enriches those experiences. In this introductory course, students will study the history of architecture, examining how advances in technologies influenced the development of form and structure and how cultural and societal changes demanded new kinds of buildings. Students will also be exposed to the fundamentals of architectural design. Through a series of design exercises, students will learn how to measure an existing space, draw orthographic views using a drafting table, and create physical scale models, culminating in an individual design project at the end of the semester.  

Prerequisite: none Credit: CAT, ART Period: Semester 

Diploma Credit: Engineering, Performing & Visual Arts

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

*CAT courses do not include an Honors Option.

Introduction to Architecture II

In Introduction to Architecture II, students will undertake architectural design projects that engage their critical and creative thinking around the functionality and aesthetics of space.  They will learn the fundamentals of the architectural design process: defining a program, space planning, developing their ideas through diagrams and sketches, and representing those ideas in drawing and model form.  Through exercises and longer term projects, students will strengthen their ability to draw plans and sections, learn new modes of representation like perspective, isometric, and diagram drawings, and build scale models.  Contemporary and historical buildings will be studied as helpful precedents in the design process.  The course will also include visits to NYC and/or local architecture offices to provide insight into the career and practice of an architect.  

Prerequisite: Introduction to Architecture I Credit: CAT, ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Engineering, Performing & Visual Arts

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

**CAT courses do not include an Honors Option.

Makerspace I A

In the Maker 1 sequence, students build their confidence as makers by learning the skills, processes, and mindset needed to work creatively in the makerspace. Maker 1A focuses on learning the habits of a good maker: planning a project, directing your own learning, staying curious, persisting through set-backs, and keeping the workspace tidy. Students will work through a series of guided activities that will teach them the tools and technologies of our makerspace, including woodshop tools and machinery, the laser cutter, electronics and circuitry, and layout tools for measuring and drawing plans. By the end of the semester, students will have the opportunity to pursue a personal project under the guidance of a makerspace teacher. The course also provides an introduction to Design Thinking.  

Prerequisite: None Credit: CAT, ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Engineering

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

**CAT courses do not include an Honors Option.

Makerspace I B

In Maker 1B, students have a chance to further explore the technologies of making and continue to build their confidence as makers. Additional skills and tools introduced this semester include 3D modeling and printing, CNC milling, mold-casting, sewing, and the basics of working with metal. With more opportunities for self-directed projects, students can choose to revisit skills learned during Maker 1A or build a project around practicing new skills. The habits of a good maker will continue to be emphasized in order to prepare students for independent work in Maker 2.  

Prerequisite: Makerspace I A Credit: CAT, ART Period: Semester Diploma Credit: Engineering

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

**CAT courses do not include an Honors Option.

Makerspace II A

The Maker II sequence aims to give students greater creative freedom in designing and executing their own projects. In Maker 2A, students can choose to expand their repertoire of making to include skills such as MIG welding and advanced levels in carpentry, circuitry, programming, and 3D modeling. Student projects will be grounded in Design Thinking practices and will culminate in a maker portfolio at the end of the semester, inclusive of documentation and reflection on their processes and output.  

Prerequisite: Makerspace I A+B Credit: CAT, ART Period: Semester Diploma Credit: Engineering

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

**CAT courses do not include an Honors Option.

Makerspace II B

Maker 2B continues to build off the work of Maker 2A, permitting students to carry over projects from the prior semester and start new ones. Design Thinking continues to be a cornerstone in how students conceive and implement their project ideas, with an emphasis on sustainability and designing for others. Greater attention will be given to developing the maker portfolio in preparation for college admissions.  

Prerequisite: Makerspace I A+B, Makerspace II A Credit: CAT, ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Engineering

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

**CAT courses do not include an Honors Option.

Advanced Portfolio Development 

Students with a desire to pursue advanced work in the visual arts can work with the instructor to develop a college-level portfolio. In addition to creating work that embraces a variety of artistic styles and media, students create a series of works that delve into an interdisciplinary theme of personal interest. In addition to learning how to photograph and catalog their work, students develop an artist statement to articulate their ideas and process. The course will culminate with an exhibition of works presented to the broader community. This year-long course is required for seniors enrolled in the Visual Arts Diploma program.

Prerequisite: Minimum 4 Semesters of Coursework in Visual Arts and Instructor Permission

Credit: ART Period: Full Year Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts

AAT: Advanced Makerspace X

This course is an Advanced Maker course, building on everything the student has learned in Makerspace I and II. It is designed as an Independent Study, where the student will submit a proposal for a project detailing the timeline and costs for the project. At the end of the year they will present their project in front of a panel of members of the GCDS community. Entrance into this class will need faculty approval. 

Prerequisite: Makerspace II A+B and Faculty Approval Credit: CAT, ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Engineering

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Creative Applied Technologies programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

**CAT courses do not include an Honors Option.

Acting I: Voice in Speech & Acting

This course has a dual objective: to train students to communicate with confidence and purpose as public speakers, and to introduce them to the fundamental techniques that professional actors employ on the stage. The focus is on providing a wide range of experiences that develop performance skills while allowing students to discover their own authentic voice. Towards this end, students will write short speeches, tell some of their own stories, recite poetry, and rehearse and perform monologues and partnered scenes. They will become competent in recognizing the aesthetic components of a text and trained to make compelling choices as they prepare to perform before an audience—which they will do several times during the semester. Students will be trained in the effective use of their bodies and vocal mechanisms as they learn methods of relaxing, concentrating, and maintaining focus. They will also be introduced to a basic method for developing and playing a character, based on the work of Konstantin Stanislavski.

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Semester: Semester Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Acting II: Acting Craft

This course is designed to challenge students who are already familiar with some of the basic fundamentals of acting. Our training begins with an investigation of psychology and the behavior we adopt in everyday life. Through improvisations and dramatic exercises, students explore human relationships and learn how behavior may be shaped and heightened for the stage. Drawing on the work of both Konstantin Stanislavski and the Atlantic Theatre Company, emphasis will be placed on mastering a method for playing a situation and a character, and on understanding the inner connections between the self and the imaginary world of a play. Students will develop close reading skills as they learn the process of script analysis, and scripts will be selected for each student on an individual basis with respect to age, ability, and interest. Monologue and scene work will be supported with consistent training in performance techniques including but not limited to relaxation, breath, concentration, sense memory, improvisation, and ensemble building. Audiences will be invited to enjoy student performances throughout the semester.

Prerequisite: Acting I or Instructor Permission Credit: ART Semester: Semester   

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Acting III

The course is designed to build upon the performance skills that students begin to develop in Acting II. In addition to working with contemporary texts, scene study will include classical and/or stylized pieces to provide actors with more advanced acting challenges. Major acting projects will be performed in front of public audiences. Students will have the option to substitute one acting project for a directing project.   

Prerequisite: Acting I or Instructor Permission Credit: ART Semester: Semester   

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Technical Theatre & Design 

Open to students in any grade, Technical Theatre & Design is the study and practice of creating other worlds on stage. Through analyzing theatrical design across historical, contemporary, and global contexts, and also through modeling the professional design and construction processes, students will become skilled designers and craftspeople. By exploring the design thinking process, students will practice visual and aural storytelling through construction and painting, lighting and sound technician work, costume cutting and sewing, props crafting, and mixed media design and implementation. Students will become proficient with a wide array of tools and equipment, including the skills that will carry them far beyond the theatre. Students will work as crew, designers, and technicians on main stage performances in the performing arts center. Finally, students will have ample opportunity for choice and self-directed learning, as the world of technical theatre and design is broad and diverse. Examples of past projects include scale models of a designed set, a stage manager’s prompt book, designing lights for a dance recital, running the audio at a concert, or a costume design portfolio.

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Contemporary Plays and Playwriting

This is a workshop course that invites students to explore dramatic literature from a variety of perspectives—as reader, as audience, as critic, and as writer. Students will study the work of some of our most influential and innovative contemporary American playwrights to discover the most effective ways to tell stories in dramatic form. Writing critiques of celebrated plays will help students understand and appreciate methods of developing character, dialogue, and narrative structure. Students will attend live theatre and have opportunities to speak with successful playwrights. As beginning playwrights, students will be encouraged to write swiftly, fluidly, and fearlessly. With constructive feedback from their instructor and their peers, students will revise their work frequently. The final project of the semester will be a public reading of completed works.

Prerequisite: English 10 or Instructor Approval Credit: ENG or ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

*This course is cross-listed between the English and Arts programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

Music Technology I

This course will explore the exciting process of music studio production through the application of Logic Pro X to create projects for music sequencing, recordings, videos, documentaries, commercials, film, and/or projects of personal interest. The first semester offers an introduction to music production with an emphasis on music fundamentals, melodic & harmonic design, audio tracking, and composition. Students will learn Logic Pro using a layering technique where each skillset is readily applied to a creative assignment in order to work towards a final goal. Students will learn basic music theory, arranging, and keyboard skills as they create projects that embrace various musical styles and personal interests. Students will then evolve into a more advanced compositional criterion by layering melodic and harmonic structures, composite timbres, and instrumental tracks through collaborative assignments and a final group project. Class participants have exclusive access to the Music Lab on a drop-in or sign-up basis with flexible time slots at the student’s discretion. Learning Format: Logic Pro X.

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Music Technology II

This course is a continuation of Music Technology I with an emphasis on developing the more advanced aspects of composition and music production. Students continue to develop arranging, music theory, and keyboard skills and readily apply those techniques towards a deeper Music Technology learning initiative. Students will focus on genre-specific trends in the areas of Film Scoring, Music Production, and Orchestration and approach these focal points through a more cultural and innovative lens. Students will delve  into more complex compositional criteria by merging aspects of music production into the folds of a final project. Class participants have exclusive access to the Music Lab on a drop-in or sign-up basis with flexible time slots at the student’s discretion. Learning Format: Logic Pro X. 

Prerequisite: Music Technology I Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Music Technology III

Music Technology III is a continuation of Music Technology II with an emphasis on developing more advanced aspects of composition and music production through independent initiatives. Students will focus on more entrepreneurial projects that engage in a broader understanding of the music industry with a more cultural and innovative lens. Students will delve into more complex compositional criteria by merging aspects of music production into the folds of a final project. Class participants have access to the Music Lab on a drop-in or sign-up basis with flexible time slots at the student’s discretion. Learning Format: Logic Pro X & Finale. 

Prerequisite: Music Technology II Credit: ART Period: Semester 

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Music Technology IV

Music Technology IV represents the most advanced and independent level of digital composition, arrangement and production. This course includes a significant self-directed component and will center around the development of a professional portfolio of work. Students will also be guided to enter their work in national competitions and performance and music production opportunities. They will work directly with professional musicians and composers in the development of their portfolio. Class participants have access to the Music Lab on a drop-in or sign-up basis with flexible time slots at the student’s discretion. Learning Format: Logic Pro X & Finale. 

Prerequisite: Music Technology III, Music Theory, Instructor Approval Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Music Theory: Concepts of Listening & Analysis

This course is designed for students who wish to explore the more theoretical aspects of music. Students will explore music from various angles and develop skills for deep listening and critical analysis. Students learn how music is applied to the written page through the understanding of tonality, melodic and harmonic structures with an emphasis on how these theories affect the way music is heard. Students will learn the theoretical concepts of song design to understand how thematic development is used to tell a story. Exploration into the various rules and practices of the pop, jazz, classical and contemporary idioms will allow students to experience music from the musician's point of view.

Music Fundamentals: Piano Skills, Notation, Rhythm, Intervals, Scales, Key Signatures, Melodic and Harmonic Structures, Solfege, Counterpoint, Form, and Analysis.  

Listening & Analysis: Score and Song analysis explore a deep understanding of how music theory relates to the written score and how certain nuances of song-writing are used to create emotional content.

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Semester

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Advanced Composition & Arranging

This course is designed to accommodate the advanced composer looking to expand their music portfolio into a broader spectrum of composition. Students in this course will go beyond the scope of melodic and harmonic structure into a deeper understanding of concepts in instrumentation, arranging, and orchestration. The process for this course is independent work presented weekly for peer review. Through a constant reworking of arranging concepts, the course will culminate in the presentation of a final well-crafted score. Students in this course will have the opportunity to choose a path in Film-Scoring or Orchestration as a final artistic piece that fully represents the knowledge and skills gained throughout the semester. Learning Format: Finale.

Prerequisite: Music Theory Credit: ART Period: Semester 

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts  

American Music, American Life

Since World War II, popular music has been the quintessential expression of everyday American life. As such, it reflects the divisions as well as the unities of U.S. society at large. In this course, we will explore some of the most important genres in pop—notably country music, rock & roll, and hip-hop—and their impact on the generations of Americans who have come of age in the past 75 years. The spirit of the course is comparative: to look at a series of themes in our national life (among them race and ethnic relations, gender expression, class politics, religion and regionalism, among others) as well as the means of musical expression in terms of the ways songs are constructed and performed. Students will be asked to read, write, and think about how music works, and to consider music they haven’t always listened to—or liked—and grapple with new ideas. The goal will be to achieve a greater appreciation of American popular music, as well as aspects of/perspectives on American life that may not be familiar to those whose frame of reference is the second decade of the 21st century.

Prerequisite: History 10 Credit: ART or HIST/SOC Period: Semester 

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

*This course is cross-listed between the Arts and Social Sciences programs. When registering, students must select the credit for which they would like the course to be registered. Students should consult with their advisor and review their graduation requirements.

Concert Band

The Band's primary focus is to meticulously rehearse a diverse repertoire in preparation for a broad spectrum of performances. Participants will cultivate technical proficiency specific to their individual instruments, engage in sectionals to refine ensemble cohesion, and collectively elevate the overall ensemble's skill set. A particular emphasis is placed on rehearsing repertoire across a range of styles, offering a graduated scale of challenges aimed at advancing instrumental technique, deepening understanding of music theory, honing sight-reading abilities, mastering dynamics and phrasing, achieving precision in intonation, and enhancing musical interpretation.

Requirements:  Band students  will participate in our weekly morning instrumentals  to  focus  on  technique  and  specific challenges  in a group lesson environment.  Students  are  required  to  fulfill a weekly home practice routine.    

Prerequisite: Previous Instrumental Experience, No Audition Needed Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Jazz Band 

The Jazz Band is an ensemble that welcomes students demonstrating instrumental proficiency, maturity, self-motivation, and a curiosity for exploring the distinctive artistry of jazz. Our ensemble seamlessly integrates the technical, theoretical, and improvisational dimensions of jazz, spanning styles such as blues, swing, bebop, modal, and contemporary idioms. Through engaging with diverse repertoire rooted in various cultures and genres, participants cultivate an interactive understanding of the jazz musician's role. Evaluation encompasses technical prowess, attentive listening, sight-reading ability, and musical interpretation, all underpinned by a commitment to diligent practice and performance excellence.

Prerequisite: Concert Band, Audition Credit: ART Period: Full Year Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Jazz Band functions as a sub-ensemble of Concert Band and does not require scheduling of an additional period.

String Ensemble 

In the String Ensemble program,  students work  together preparing  their concert repertoire.  The ensemble concentrates  on  improving  technical skills  in  order to  express  each  student’s  inner musical artistry through a combination of peer mentorship and individualized lessons with the course instructor.  Students in the ensemble work to  create  a  more  beautiful tone  quality,  perform  musical  phrasing,  use dynamic  contrasts,  and  various articulations  to  promote the  artistic  expression of the group as a whole. They  experience  working  together,  as  a team,  to  strive for  peak  performance results. 

Course  Goals: 

•  All students are  challenged  to  improve  their  artistry  in  learning  expressive  phrasing  techniques in  various  styles  of music. 

•  Students  explore  how  the  markings  on  the  page  communicate  to  them  precisely  how the composer  intended  the  music  should  be  interpreted. 

•  Each  student works to improve  clarity  and  tone  quality  through  the  practice  of good  bowing techniques.

•  Left  hand  position  work  and  finger strengthening  exercises to improve  intonation  and  facility.   

•  Students  learn  musical  theory and history  as  it  applies  to  strings and our ensemble’s repertoire

Prerequisite: Previous Instrumental Experience, No Audition Needed Credit: ART Semester: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Concert Choir

Singing and matching pitch is required. Sight-singing abilities are encouraged and will be furthered as part of the course. The primary focus in chorus is to make music together in support of Winter and Spring Concerts. Additional performances during  the regular school  calendar, as well as possible performances at other concert venues will be arranged throughout  the fall and spring semesters. Repertoire for performances will span all vocal-musical styles:  Classical, Modern, Broadway, Popular, Jazz. Each week, singers  will:   

•  Build a  routine  of  physical  and  vocal  habits  that  support  long-term  vocal  health.   

•  Be prepared  for  daily  vocal  exercises  and  short  technique  songs  and  canons  that  support  tuning and  tone  control. 

•  Prepare  themselves  through  the  use  of  music  notation  and  sight-singing  exercises  that build reading  skills.   

Our basic goals will lead to the development of great singing technique, applied theory, sight-reading skills, dynamics, phrasing, intonation, and musical interpretation to enhance overall musicianship.   

Requirements: This course will meet twice a week outside of the regular academic schedule (utilizing X - periods, lunches, and before school). The course is .5 credits as a full year class. The Tiger Tones are automatically a part of the Concert Choir. 

Prerequisite: Previous Ensemble Experience, No Audition Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Advanced Vocal Ensemble: "The Tiger Tones"

The focus of The Tiger Tones is to prepare multiple genres of repertoire in preparation for concerts and special events. The Tiger Tones is the premiere performing vocal ensemble of GCDS and extra focus will be given to performances that promote GCDS. Additional performances during the regular school calendar as well as possible performances at other concert venues will be arranged throughout the fall and spring semesters. Repertoire for performances will span all vocal-musical styles (Classical, Modern, Broadway, Popular, Jazz) but the focus will be a cappella in nature.  Each week, singers will build on the basic skills of The Concert Choir: 

• Build a routine of physical and vocal habits that support long-term vocal health. 

• Be prepared for daily vocal exercises and short technique songs and canons that support tuning and tone control. 

• Prepare themselves through the use of music notation and sight-singing exercises that build reading skills. Since this ensemble will be focused on performance, the singers will build a repertoire of performance ready materials. 

Requirements: The Tiger Tones meet during the regular academic periods of the day. Singers will be required to fulfill a weekly home practice routine so they are prepared for each rehearsal. Auditions are not required; new singers will have a vocal evaluation to gauge voice part and skills prior to the first week of classes.

Prerequisite: Concert Choir or Audition Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Auditions for new students will occur during late May 2024. Singing and matching pitch is required. Sight-singing, notation reading, and tone matching abilities are necessary and will be furthered as part of the course. The number of singers is not limited, but preference is given to Juniors and Seniors, and to students with experience singing in choirs. For incoming freshmen, it is highly recommended to participate in Concert Choir before joining Tiger Tones.

Studio Voice I

Do you love to sing but want to improve your vocal technique? Whether you love singing pop, Broadway, classical or anything else, this class is designed to build on your vocal skills, become more technically proficient, and improve sight-singing. We will also study the different vocal techniques required to sing in multiple genres as well as how the voice works as an instrument. Singers will study the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), learn Latin and Italian diction and prepare to perform songs of their own choosing. The semester will culminate with a studio recital where each student will participate in the performance based on their abilities. Additional performances will be possible both in the school and for CPG events. This course is designed to teach singers more detail about the solo voice than choir can allow, but will make you a better choral and solo singer.

Requirements: Singers will be required to fulfill a weekly home practice routine so they are prepared for each class. Auditions are not required; new singers will have a vocal evaluation to gauge voice part and skills prior to the first week of classes. (Students participating in Studio Voice Class will be automatically part of the Concert Choir which meets outside the academic schedule.)

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts 

Studio Voice II

The semester class is a continuation of Studio Voice Class I.  Whether you love singing pop, Broadway, classical or anything else, this class is designed to build on your vocal skills, become more technically proficient, and improve sight-singing. We will continue to study the different vocal techniques required to sing in multiple genres. Singers will study the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), learn German diction. They will also continue learning Broadway, Opera, or Pop repertoire, based on the students’ choice of material.  The semester will culminate with a studio recital where each student will participate in the performance based on their abilities. Studio Voice II is also designed to support students prior to their Senior year in preparation for college pre-screen auditions, and will utilize in-class recordings to develop skills for on-camera experience and live performances. 

Requirements: Singers will be required to fulfill a weekly home practice routine so they are prepared for each class. Auditions are not required; new singers will have a vocal evaluation to gauge voice part and skills prior to the first week of classes (Students participating in Studio Voice Class will be automatically part of the Concert Choir which meets outside the academic schedule).

Prerequisite: None Credit: ART Period: Full Year

Diploma Credit: Performing & Visual Arts