Curriculum Detail

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Fine Arts

The fine arts curriculum at Xaverian affirms and emphasizes the creative process as the essence of fine arts education. The program supports the integration of knowledge acquired across the curriculum. The mission of the fine arts program is to develop learners who display their own creativity and become responsive to the creativity of others. It describes learning, teaching, and assessment in three arts disciplines: visual arts, music, and theater.

The philosophy of the fine arts department is based on the conviction that the arts are a basic mode of learning. The program is designed to involve all of the senses and powers (right- and left-brain) of the student in learning. The arts are the dynamic integrating force that can involve students creatively in their education and help them to see this basic oneness in all knowledge.

Central to the educational philosophy and critical aspect of the fine arts program is the goal of providing students with the skills in critical thinking that support a lifetime of intellectual inquiry. Students are exposed to information to help them understand the historical and cultural life they inherit and to acquire a visual, musical, and verbal literacy to actively participate in the arts of the present and to contribute to the arts of the future.

  • Music 7

    MUSIC 7
    Grade 7
    #FX874
     
    Grade 7 Band
    Grade 7 Band is intended for students who are beginning a new instrument or have previous experience. Classes are taught in a group setting with primary focus on the development of foundational knowledge and rudimental skills associated with the performance of a wind or percussion instrument. Students are instructed in posture, playing position, breath/stick control and guided towards expression and technical accuracy. Students perform music representing diverse genres and cultures, with expression appropriate for the work being performed. The band performs several concerts and events throughout the year and focuses heavily on the enjoyment of music through the study of instrumental music and technique. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on: the National Standards for Music Education, Massachusetts Standards for Music Education and the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for the Fine Arts guidelines.

    Grade 7 Orchestra
    Grade 7 Orchestra is intended for students who are beginning a new instrument or have previous experience. Classes are taught in a group setting with primary focus on the development of foundational knowledge and rudimental skills associated with the performance of a string instrument. Students are instructed in posture, playing position, tone quality, articulation, music theory, ear training, improvisation, and historical context of music. Members of the orchestra improve memory, hand-eye coordination, and emotional intelligence through playing and reading music, in addition to finding a larger sense of community by collaborating in an ensemble. This ensemble performs at two annual concerts: one in the Advent/Christmas season and one in the spring. Repertoire includes music of all time periods and genres, representing many different cultures. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on the National Standards for Music Education and the Massachusetts Standards for Music Education. 

     
    Grade 7 Chorus
    Grade 7 Chorus is intended for students who are beginning to sing or have previous experience. Classes are taught in a group setting with primary focus on the development of foundational knowledge and rudimental skills associated with the performance of choral/vocal music. Students are instructed in posture, breath control, vowel production, diction, music history, historical context of songs, theory, sight singing, ear training, improvisation, and poetry. Participants learn empathy, are encouraged to explore their emotions, and gain a sense of community through singing in an ensemble. Choir members frequently collaborate as they learn and strive for excellence. This ensemble performs two concerts per year; one in the Advent/Christmas season and one in the spring. Repertoire includes music of all time periods, representing many different cultures. The course focuses heavily on the enjoyment of music through the study of diverse, exciting repertoire and healthy vocal technique. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on: the National Standards for Music Education and the Massachusetts Standards for Music Education.

  • Visual Art 7

    VISUAL ART 7 
    Grade 7
    #FX885

    Description: In this introductory art class students will organize and develop artistic ideas and be given the opportunity to refine their work to successful completion while learning about major artistic periods throughout history. Course units and lessons will be developed through hands­-on artmaking experiences. Students will use a wide variety of materials and techniques and learn to incorporate the elements and principles of design into their creative problem solving decisions. Students will create works of art from direct observation, memory and their imagination. They will be introduced to artists and artwork from a variety of periods and cultures. Students will prepare and maintain a portfolio of their completed artwork.

  • Music 8

    MUSIC 8
    Grade 8
    #FX884

    Grade 8 Band
    Grade 8 Band and Orchestra is a continuation of grade 7 band and is intended for students who are beginning a new instrument or have previous experience. Classes are taught in a group setting with primary focus on the development of foundational knowledge and rudimental skills associated with the performance of a wind or percussion instrument. Students are instructed in posture, playing position, breath/stick control and guided towards expression and technical accuracy. Students perform music representing diverse genres and cultures, with expression appropriate for the work being performed. The band performs several concerts and events throughout the year and focuses heavily on the enjoyment of music through the study of instrumental music and technique. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on: the National Standards for Music Education, Massachusetts Standards for Music Education and the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for the Fine Arts guidelines.

    Grade 8 Orchestra
    Grade 8 Orchestra is designed as a continuation of Grade 7 Orchestra, and is intended for both beginner students and students with previous experience. Classes are taught in a group setting with primary focus on the development of foundational knowledge and rudimental skills associated with the performance of orchestral music. Eighth grade orchestra will study more advanced principles of posture, tone quality, articulation, music theory, ear training, improvisation, and historical context of music.  Members of the orchestra improve memory, hand-eye coordination, and emotional intelligence through playing and reading music, in addition to finding a larger sense of community by collaborating in an ensemble. This ensemble performs at two annual concerts: one in the Advent/Christmas season and one in the spring. Repertoire includes music of all time periods and genres, representing many different cultures. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on the National Standards for Music Education and the Massachusetts Standards for Music Education.


    Grade 8 Chorus
    Grade 8 Chorus is a continuation of grade 7 chorus. This ensemble is intended for students who are beginning singers or have previous experience. Classes are taught in a group setting with primary focus on the development of foundational knowledge and rudimental skills associated with the performance of choral/vocal music. Eighth grade chorus will study more advanced principles in posture, breath control, vowel production, diction, music history, historical context of songs, theory, sight singing, ear training, improvisation, and poetry. Participants learn empathy, are encouraged to explore their emotions, and gain a sense of community through singing in an ensemble. Choir members frequently collaborate as they learn and strive for excellence. This ensemble performs two concerts per year; one in the Advent/Christmas season and one in the spring. Repertoire includes music of all time periods, representing many different cultures. The course focuses heavily on the enjoyment of music through the study of diverse, exciting repertoire and healthy vocal technique. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on: the National Standards for Music Education and the Massachusetts Standards for Music Education.

  • Theatre 8

    THEATRE 8
    Grade 8
    #FX885
     
    Description: Students will take on such roles as actor, director, dancer, and writer in order to learn both the onstage and offstage roles of the art form, while also developing a strong theater vocabulary. Projects will include monologue creation and performance, choreography design and movement, and Playbill design!

  • Survey of Visual Arts-A

    SURVEY OF VISUAL ARTS
    Grades 9-12
    #810 Accelerated
    One Semester
    Prerequisites: None

    Description: In this studio course students will be able to explore a wide range of artistic forms such as drawing and painting, sculpture, film, archiwood burning, architecture and digital photography. The curriculum will introduce core art elements and principles of design, alongside topics like art history and the creative process.

  • Studio Art I-A

    STUDIO ART I
    Grades 10-12
    #811 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Survey of Visual Art-A

    Description: In this course students will be provided with a sequential program to further develop and build on the experience gained in Survey of Visual Art. Students will broaden skills and be able to demonstrate greater proficiency in the use of pencil, charcoal, pen and ink, and paint as they create art forms. Art history, aesthetics, and criticism will be integrated with studio-production in all aspects of art making. Students will complete one major project each quarter, create a comprehensive twenty-piece portfolio, and display their work in the annual Art Show. NOTE: The student may complete a full year in Studio Art by taking Studio Art I followed by Studio Art II.

  • Studio Art II-A

    STUDIO ART II
    Grades 10-12
    #812 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Studio Art I-A

    Description: In this course students will be provided with a sequential program to further develop and build on the experience gained in Studio Art I. Students will broaden skills and be able to demonstrate greater proficiency in the use of pencil, charcoal, pen and ink, and paint as they create art forms. Art history, aesthetics, and criticism will be integrated with studio-production in all aspects of art making. Students will complete one major project each quarter, create a comprehensive twenty-piece portfolio, and display their work in the annual Art Show. 

  • AP 2-D Art and Design

    AP 2-D Art and Design
    Grades 11-12
    #816 Advanced Placement
    Full Year

    Prerequisites    : Successful completion of Studio Art I, departmental interview and approval.

    Description: In AP 2-D Art and Design, you’ll use the skills you learn in the course, and your own ideas, to create unique works of art. Throughout the course, you’ll develop an inquiry that guides artmaking through practice, experimentation, and revision of materials, processes, and ideas while demonstrating 2-D art and design skills through graphic design, sequential art, photography, collage, printmaking, illustration, industrial design, animation, game design, painting, fibers, and others. You’ll develop skills using materials and processes such as graphic design, photography, collage, printmaking, fashion illustration, and others. As the course concludes you’ll submit a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to practice, experiment, and revise your own work while communicating your ideas about art and design. (College Board)

  • AP 3-D Art and Design

    AP 3-D Art and Design
    Grades 11-12
    #817 Advanced Placement
    Full Year

    Prerequisites:     Successful completion of Studio Art I, departmental interview and approval.

    Description:     In AP 3-D Art and Design, you’ll use the skills you learn in the course, and your own ideas, to create unique works of art. Throughout the course, you’ll develop an inquiry that guides artmaking through practice, experimentation, and revision of materials, processes, and ideas while demonstrating 3-D art and design skills through sculpture, architecture, jewelry, fashion and apparel design, bookmaking, game design, interior design, fibers, and others. You’ll learn how to create art in different disciplines such as sculpture, architectural rendering, metal work, ceramics, and others. At the end of the course you’ll submit a portfolio that demonstrates your knowledge of art skills using three-dimensional materials. (College Board)

  • AP Drawing

    AP Drawing
    Grades 11-12
    #815 Advanced Placement
    Full Year

    Prerequisites    : Successful completion of Studio Art I, departmental interview and approval.

    Description: In AP Drawing, you’ll use the skills you learn in the course, and your own ideas, to create unique works of art. Throughout the course, you’ll develop an inquiry that guides artmaking through practice, experimentation, and revision of materials, processes, and ideas while demonstrating drawing skills through painting, drawing, sequential art, printmaking, illustration, animation, fibers, and others. You’ll experiment with a variety of materials and processes as you develop your drawing skills. At the end of the course you’ll submit a portfolio that demonstrates the different drawing abilities taught in the course, which include mark-making, line, surface, space, light and shade, and composition. (College Board)

  • Band I-A

    BAND I-A
    Grades 9-12
    #821 Accelerated
    Full Year

    Prerequisites: None

    Description: Band I is open to students of all levels who want to learn to play an instrument. Students can learn to play the trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, saxophone, flute, clarinet or percussion. There is no entry requirement and no experience is necessary. The band performs several concerts and events throughout the year.  

  • Band II-H

    BAND II
    Grades 10-12
    #822 Honors
    Full Year
     
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Band I-A or departmental approval
     
    Description: Band (level II) is an honors level course that builds on skills and techniques learned in Band I. This course offers instruction on woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments with a focus on group performance. The band performs many events throughout the year including sporting events, concerts, and festivals. 

  • Band III-H

    BAND III
    Grades 11-12
    #823 Honors
    Full Year
     
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Band II-H or departmental approval
     
    Description: Band (level III) is an honors-level course that builds on skills and techniques learned in Band I and Band II. This course offers instruction on woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments with a focus on group performance. The band performs many events throughout the year including sporting events, concerts, and festivals. 

  • Band IV-H

    BAND IIV
    Grades 11-12
    #824 Honors
    Full Year
     
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Band III-H or departmental approval
     
    Description: Band (level IV) is an honors-level course that builds on skills and techniques learned in Band I, Band II, and Band III. This course offers instruction on woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments with a focus on group performance. The band performs many events throughout the year including sporting events, concerts, and festivals. 

  • Jazz Band I-A

    JAZZ BAND I
    Grades 9-12
    #851 Accelerated
    Full-Year (0.5 credit)

    Prerequisites    : Band experience on a jazz instrument is required; however, no prior experience in jazz is necessary. This course meets every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 2:40-3:25 p.m.
     
    Description: This class will serve as an introduction to the rich history of jazz music. Through ensemble rehearsal, individual practice, and a variety of performance opportunities, the student will gain an understanding and appreciation for this great art form. Emphasis will be placed on rudimentary improvisational skills, a sense of personal accountability, and musicianship as well as performance techniques. Members will study and perform different forms of music including jazz, funk, blues, fusion, and rock. Each student is expected to show musical and technical growth through participation in this ensemble. This course meets every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 2:40-3:25 p.m. Public and outside-of-school day performances are a requirement of the course. Including participation in home varsity football games. 

  • Jazz Band II-H

    JAZZ BAND II
    Grades 9-12
    #852 Honors
    Full-Year (0.5 credit)

    Prerequisites    : Band experience on a jazz instrument is required; however, no prior experience in jazz is necessary. This course meets every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 2:40-3:25 p.m.
     
    Description: Through ensemble rehearsal, individual practice, and a variety of performance opportunities, the student will gain an understanding and appreciation for this great art form. Emphasis will be placed on rudimentary improvisational skills, a sense of personal accountability, and musicianship as well as performance techniques. Members will study and perform different forms of music including jazz, funk, blues, fusion, and rock. Each student is expected to show musical and technical growth through participation in this ensemble. This course meets every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 2:40-3:25 p.m. Public and outside-of-school day performances are a requirement of the course, including participation in home varsity football games. 

  • Jazz Band IV-H

    JAZZ BAND IV
    Grades 9-12
    #854 Honors
    Full-Year (0.5 credit)

    Prerequisites    : Band experience on a jazz instrument is required; however, no prior experience in jazz is necessary. This course meets every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 2:40-3:25 p.m.
     
    Description: Through ensemble rehearsal, individual practice, and a variety of performance opportunities, the student will gain an understanding and appreciation for this great art form. Emphasis will be placed on rudimentary improvisational skills, a sense of personal accountability, and musicianship as well as performance techniques. Members will study and perform different forms of music including jazz, funk, blues, fusion, and rock. Each student is expected to show musical and technical growth through participation in this ensemble. This course meets every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 2:40-3:25 p.m. Public and outside-of-school day performances are a requirement of the course, including participation in home varsity football games. 

  • Jazz Band III-H

    JAZZ BAND III
    Grades 9-12
    #853 Honors
    Full-Year (0.5 credit)

    Prerequisites    : Band experience on a jazz instrument is required; however, no prior experience in jazz is necessary. This course meets every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 2:40-3:25 p.m.
     
    Description: Through ensemble rehearsal, individual practice, and a variety of performance opportunities, the student will gain an understanding and appreciation for this great art form. Emphasis will be placed on rudimentary improvisational skills, a sense of personal accountability, and musicianship as well as performance techniques. Members will study and perform different forms of music including jazz, funk, blues, fusion, and rock. Each student is expected to show musical and technical growth through participation in this ensemble. This course meets every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 2:40-3:25 p.m. Public and outside-of-school day performances are a requirement of the course, including participation in home varsity football games. 

  • Beginning Guitar-A

    BEGINNING GUITAR
    Grades 9-12
    #862 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites    : A reliable acoustic guitar, which the student will bring on the first day of class, is required.

    Description: The Beginning Guitar course is designed for all levels of guitar players.  The class will focus on music from current pop music to jazz and classical. Students will play in groups as large as the whole class and/or in smaller groups or even solos if they desire. Concepts of theory, guitar anatomy, and guitar history will be learned.

  • Music Theory I-A

    MUSIC THEORY I
    Grades 9-12
    #860 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites    : None

    Description: 
    This course will explore the fundamentals of music theory. Concepts include: ear training, melodic and rhythmic dictation, notation of pitch, note names, clefs, accidentals, intervals, enharmonic equivalents, half-step motion, notation of duration, the tie, the dot, irregular division of notes, rhythm, meter signatures, dynamic markings, diatonic scales, scale degree names, major scale, scale relationships, tonality, key, enharmonic intervals, inversion of intervals and triads, compound intervals, harmony, triads, seventh chords, cadences, non-harmonic tones, motives, sequence, and four-part chorale writing. Students work independently and collaboratively to learn theoretical concepts in preparation for AP Theory. 

  • AP Music Theory

    AP MUSIC THEORY
    Grade 12
    #864 Advanced Placement
    Full Year
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Music Theory I and/or departmental approval

    Description: AP Music Theory corresponds to two semesters of a typical introductory college music theory course covering topics such as musicianship, theory, musical materials, and procedures. Students develop the ability to recognize, understand, and describe basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. Development of aural skills is a primary objective. Students understand basic concepts and terminology by listening to and performing a wide variety of music.

  • Senior Recital

    SENIOR RECITAL
    Grade 12
    #825 Honors
    Full Year

    Prerequisites    : Assessment of students’ music training and teacher approval.

    Description: This independent study is an opportunity for exceptional student musicians perform a recital. Working with Xaverian faculty and the student's private lessons teacher, students will be responsible for the planning, practicing, advertising, and ultimately the presentation of this recital. Recitals will be performed for the Xaverian Brothers High School community, family, friends and the general public. Grading will be based on cycle meetings, private lessons, projects, and performances. As an independent study, the student will be required to do a significant amount of work on his own in order to fulfil class requirements. It is important to note that this is an independent study class and students will be required to dedicate unstructured period(s) to fulfill class requirements.

  • Chorus I-A

    CHORUS I
    Grades 9-12
    #831 Accelerated
    Full Year

    Prerequisites    : None

    Description: 
    The XBHS Chorus is Xaverian Brothers High School’s primary vocal ensemble specializing in the performance of a cappella and accompanied choral music from across cultures, spanning the choral canon in multiple languages. One of the goals of the class is to achieve proficiency in sight-reading, level III, based on NYSSMA standards. Classes will be dedicated to the rehearsal of repertoire, appropriate performance practices, optimum singing technique, sight-reading skills, ear training, and ensemble building strategies. To help authentically perform the repertoire, students will explore music theory, music history, and other disciplines as applicable. Outside rehearsals will be scheduled on occasion and are required. This ensemble regularly sings at the MICCA Festival and has many members audition for Junior and Senior District Festivals of the MMEA. Seniors who choose to participate in the CSS program must return to school for this course.

  • Chorus II-H

    CHORUS II
    Grades 9-12
    #832 Honors
    Full Year

    Prerequisites    : Chorus I

    Description: 
    The XBHS Chorus is Xaverian Brothers High School’s primary vocal ensemble specializing in the performance of a cappella and accompanied choral music from across cultures, spanning the choral canon in multiple languages. One of the goals of the class is to achieve proficiency in sight reading, level IV, based on NYSSMA standards. Classes will be dedicated to the rehearsal of repertoire, appropriate performance practices, optimum singing technique, sight reading skills, ear training, and ensemble building strategies. To help authentically perform the repertoire, students will explore music theory, music history, and other disciplines as applicable. Outside rehearsals will be scheduled on occasion and are required. This ensemble regularly sings at the MICCA Festival and has many members audition for Junior and Senior District Festivals of the MMEA. Seniors who choose to participate in the CSS program must return to school for this course.

  • Chorus III-H

    CHORUS III
    Grades 9-12
    #833 Honors
    Full Year

    Prerequisites    : Chorus II

    Description: 
    The XBHS Chorus is Xaverian Brothers High School’s primary vocal ensemble specializing in the performance of a cappella and accompanied choral music from across cultures, spanning the choral canon in multiple languages. One of the goals of the class is to achieve proficiency in sight reading, level V, based on NYSSMA standards. Classes will be dedicated to the rehearsal of repertoire, appropriate performance practices, optimum singing technique, sight reading skills, ear training, and ensemble building strategies. To help authentically perform the repertoire, students will explore music theory, music history, and other disciplines as applicable. Outside rehearsals will be scheduled on occasion and are required. This ensemble regularly sings at the MICCA Festival and has many members audition for Junior and Senior District Festivals of the MMEA. Seniors who choose to participate in the CSS program must return to school for this course.

  • Chorus IV-H

    CHORUS IV
    Grades 9-12
    #834 Honors
    Full Year

    Prerequisites    : Chorus III

    Description: 
    The XBHS Chorus is Xaverian Brothers High School’s primary vocal ensemble specializing in the performance of a cappella and accompanied choral music from across cultures, spanning the choral canon in multiple languages. One of the goals of the class is to achieve proficiency in sight reading, level VI, based on NYSSMA standards. Classes will be dedicated to the rehearsal of repertoire, appropriate performance practices, optimum singing technique, sight reading skills, ear training, and ensemble building strategies. To help authentically perform the repertoire, students will explore music theory, music history, and other disciplines as applicable. Outside rehearsals will be scheduled on occasion and are required. This ensemble regularly sings at the MICCA Festival and has many members audition for Junior and Senior District Festivals of the MMEA. Seniors who choose to participate in the CSS program must return to school for this course.

  • Chamber Choir-H

    CHAMBER CHOIR

    Grades 10-12

    #835 Honors

    Full Year


    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Chorus I-A and/or departmental approval


    Description: The XBHS Chamber Choir (known as the Schola Cantorum) will consist of singers who are experienced and skilled in the arts of singing. The class is designed to provide more advanced musical experience to singers who qualify through audition. Performance of a cappella and accompanied choral music from across cultures, spanning the choral canon in multiple languages. One of the goals of the class is to achieve proficiency in sight-reading, level III, based on NYSSMA standards. Classes will be dedicated to the rehearsal of repertoire, appropriate performance practices, optimum singing technique, sight-reading skills, ear training, and ensemble building strategies. To help authentically perform the repertoire, students will explore music theory, music history, and other disciplines as applicable. Outside rehearsals will be scheduled on occasion and are required. This ensemble regularly sings at the MICCA Festival and has many members participate in Junior, Senior District and All-State Festivals of the MMEA. Seniors who choose to participate in the CSS program must return to school for this course.

  • Orchestra I-A

    ORCHESTRA I
    Grades 9-12
    #841 Accelerated
    Full Year
     
    Prerequisites: None
     
    Description: The XBHS Orchestra is Xaverian Brother High School’s primary string ensemble consisting of violin, viola, cello, and double bass musicians. Classes are dedicated to rehearsal of repertoire that reflects diverse cultures, genres, and composers. Students develop sight-reading skills and ensemble building strategies, in addition to receiving instruction in ear training, music theory, and appropriate performance practices. Members of the orchestra improve memory, hand-eye coordination, and emotional intelligence through playing and reading music, in addition to finding a larger sense of community by collaborating in an ensemble. This ensemble performs at two annual concerts: one in the Advent/Christmas season and one in the spring, as well as competes at the MICCA Festival in March. Students also have opportunities to audition for Junior and Senior District Festivals. Outside rehearsals will be scheduled on occasion and are required. Repertoire includes music of all time periods and genres, representing many different cultures. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on the National Standards for Music Education and the Massachusetts Standards for Music Education. Seniors who choose to participate in the CSS program must return to school for this course.

  • Orchestra II-H

    ORCHESTRA II
    Grades 10-12
    #842 Honors
    Full Year
     
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Orchestra I-A or departmental approval
     
    Description: The XBHS Orchestra is Xaverian Brother High School’s primary string ensemble consisting of violin, viola, cello, and double bass musicians. Classes are dedicated to rehearsal of repertoire that reflects diverse cultures, genres, and composers. Students develop sight-reading skills and ensemble building strategies, in addition to receiving instruction in ear training, music theory, and appropriate performance practices. Members of the orchestra improve memory, hand-eye coordination, and emotional intelligence through playing and reading music, in addition to finding a larger sense of community by collaborating in an ensemble. This ensemble performs at two annual concerts: one in the Advent/Christmas season and one in the spring, as well as competes at the MICCA Festival in March. Students also have opportunities to audition for Junior and Senior District Festivals. Outside rehearsals will be scheduled on occasion and are required. Repertoire includes music of all time periods and genres, representing many different cultures. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on the National Standards for Music Education and the Massachusetts Standards for Music Education. Seniors who choose to participate in the CSS program must return to school for this course.

  • Orchestra III-H

    ORCHESTRA III
    Grades 11-12
    #843 Honors
    Full Year
     
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Orchestra II-H or departmental approval
     
    Description: The XBHS Orchestra is Xaverian Brother High School’s primary string ensemble consisting of violin, viola, cello, and double bass musicians. Classes are dedicated to rehearsal of repertoire that reflects diverse cultures, genres, and composers. Students develop sight-reading skills and ensemble building strategies, in addition to receiving instruction in ear training, music theory, and appropriate performance practices. Members of the orchestra improve memory, hand-eye coordination, and emotional intelligence through playing and reading music, in addition to finding a larger sense of community by collaborating in an ensemble. This ensemble performs at two annual concerts: one in the Advent/Christmas season and one in the spring, as well as competes at the MICCA Festival in March. Students also have opportunities to audition for Junior and Senior District Festivals. Outside rehearsals will be scheduled on occasion and are required. Repertoire includes music of all time periods and genres, representing many different cultures. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on the National Standards for Music Education and the Massachusetts Standards for Music Education. Seniors who choose to participate in the CSS program must return to school for this course.

  • Orchestra IV-H

    ORCHESTRA IV
    Grades 11-12
    #844 Honors
    Full Year
     
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Orchestra III-H or departmental approval
     
    Description: The XBHS Orchestra is Xaverian Brother High School’s primary string ensemble consisting of violin, viola, cello, and double bass musicians. Classes are dedicated to rehearsal of repertoire that reflects diverse cultures, genres, and composers. Students develop sight-reading skills and ensemble building strategies, in addition to receiving instruction in ear training, music theory, and appropriate performance practices. Members of the orchestra improve memory, hand-eye coordination, and emotional intelligence through playing and reading music, in addition to finding a larger sense of community by collaborating in an ensemble. This ensemble performs at two annual concerts: one in the Advent/Christmas season and one in the spring, as well as competes at the MICCA Festival in March. Students also have opportunities to audition for Junior and Senior District Festivals. Outside rehearsals will be scheduled on occasion and are required. Repertoire includes music of all time periods and genres, representing many different cultures. Curriculum and instruction are based heavily on the National Standards for Music Education and the Massachusetts Standards for Music Education. Seniors who choose to participate in the CSS program must return to school for this course.

  • Theater I-A

    THEATER I: ACTING, DIRECTING, AND MOVEMENT
    Grades: 9-12
    #871 Accelerated
    One Semester
    Prerequisites: None
    Course Description: This course will offer students an introduction to acting, directing, movement, and theater design! Improvisation will be utilized throughout the semester in order to work on an actor’s response time, as well as their ability to adapt to a number of circumstances that will influence their vocal, emotional, and physical deliveries. Monologue and scene work will be completed. Students will read a play and have the opportunity to do prop design in the Xploration Center!

  • Theater II-H

    THEATER II
    Grades: 10-12
    #872 Honors
    One Semester

    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Theater I or departmental approval
    Course Description: In this course, students will have the opportunity to build upon their experience in Theater I as they break down characters, relationships, plot, and themes to immerse themselves into the story at hand. There will be a focus on monologue and scene work, while also receiving an introduction to theater design. A play will be read during the course and that piece will be the focus of a design project in our Xploration Center.

  • Theater III-H

    THEATER III
    Grades: 11-12
    #873 Honors
    One Semester
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Theater II or departmental approval
    Course Description: This course is a continuation of studies of Theater II. Students will present monologues of varying genres, such as Shakespearean, Realism, and Greek. Students will read a play, exploring the themes, plot, characters, and relationships. Students will explore set and costume design and spend time in the Xploration Center creating an original set design for the selected piece of the course.

  • Theater IV-H

    THEATER IV
    Grades: 11-12
    #874 Honors
    One Semester
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Theater III or departmental approval
    Course Description: In this course, students will have the opportunity to build upon their experiences in Theater I, Theater II, and Theater III as they break down characters, relationships, plot, and themes to immerse themselves into the story at hand. Monologues of varying genres will be studied and performed. Students will be designing a set, costumes, and a playbill cover for the play studied during the course. Additionally, students will create and perform a dance piece.

  • Film Studies & Design-A

    FILM STUDIES & DESIGN
    Grades 9-12
    #876 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites    : Strong written and analytical skills

    Description:
    Various genres of film will be studied in this course including, but not limited to, animation, action, adventure, and drama. Along with learning film vocabulary, students will learn about the production process for a film and how tools such as camera angles, focal length and use of color provide great insight into a film’s narrative prior to dialogue being spoken. In this course, students will also be working to create their own pieces of film. Projects include creating your own silent film and creating a movie trailer!

  • Public Speaking-A

    INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC SPEAKING
    Grades 9-12
    #875 Accelerated
    One Semester
     
    Prerequisites: None

    Description: This course will begin to introduce specific concepts integral to effective and powerful public speaking and presentation. By learning appropriate preparation techniques, students will learn to overcome their apprehensions towards speaking in public and thus become more confident and effective speakers/presenters. For students with an interest in public speaking, speechwriting, and debate, this course will further encourage their growth and exploration.

  • Screenwriting-A

    SCREENWRITING
    Grades: 9-12
    #877 Accelerated
    One Semester
    Prerequisite: None
    Course Description: This hands-on course guides students through the initial steps in designing a script. Throughout the semester, students will delve into the creation processes of television, movie, and animated short scripts. Through investigative work, students will see how creative stories are brought to life through the written word. By learning the arc of a storyline and the complexities of a character, students will be bringing their ideas to life and creating their own scripts!

  • Intro to DIY & Programming-A

    INTRODUCTION TO DIY & PROGRAMMING-A
    Grade 9-12
    (Fulfills .5 Computer Science AND .5 Fine Arts Requirement)
    #935 Accelerated
    Full Year
    Prerequisites: None
    Description: DIY & Programming is a full-year class that gives students equal exposure to programming microcontrollers and making art that can be controlled by the microcontroller. This course gives students the opportunity to learn both algorithmic and artistic modes of thinking as well as how to combine them. Over the course of this class, students will create hands-on projects using techniques such as laser cutting, 3D printing, and CNC routing--with tools for these techniques available in the Xploration Center. Take this class if you want to get Making experience and to learn how to think creatively in multiple disciplines at once.

Faculty

  • Photo of Robert Thorp
    Robert Thorp
    Boston Conservatory of Music - B.A.
    University of Maryland - M.M.
    Boston University - D.M.A.
    2018
    Bio
  • Photo of Eric Burke
    Eric Burke
    Montserrat College of Art - B.F.A.
    2022
    Bio
  • Photo of Murray Kidd
    Murray Kidd
    Director of Choral Activities
    University of the Pacific - B.M.
    New England Conservatory of Music - M.M.
    Westminster Choir College - M.M.
    2019
    Bio
  • Photo of Julianne O'Connor
    Julianne O'Connor
    Castleton University - B.A.
    Castleton University - M.A.
    2017
    Bio
  • Photo of Anastasia Pavloff
    Anastasia Pavloff
    University of Massachusetts - B.M.
    2025
  • Photo of William Ricciardelli
    William Ricciardelli
    Berklee College of Music - B.M.
    2020

Xaverian Brothers High School

800 Clapboardtree Street
Westwood, MA 02090
Phone: 781-326-6392
Fax: 781-320-0458
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EIN (Tax ID Number): 04-2314036 
Xaverian is a Catholic, college-preparatory school for boys in grades 7-12. As an inclusive community, we embrace diverse experiences and perspectives, welcoming students and families from all faiths and backgrounds. Through exceptional academics, athletics, the arts, faith formation, and service opportunities, we help young men discover their unique gifts and talents so they can share them with a world in need.