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 Instrumental: Band and Orchestra
    Grade 7 Band and Orchestra is intended for students who are beginning a new instrument or have previous experience. Classes are taught in a group setting and primary focus is 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 Chorus
    Grade 7 Chorus is intended for students who are beginning to sing or have previous experience. Classes are taught in a group setting and primary focus is 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, Massachusetts Standards for Music Education.

  • Music 8

    MUSIC 8
    Grade 8
    #FX884

    Grade 8 Instrumental: Band and Orchestra
    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 and primary focus is 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 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 and primary focus is on the development of foundational knowledge and rudimental skills associated with the performance of choral/vocal music. Eighth grade chorus will study more advanced principals 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, Massachusetts Standards for Music Education.

  • Theatre 8

    THEATRE 8
    Grade 8
    #FX885
     
    Building off of the seventh grade component, Theatre 8 will focus on the different facets of a stage production in today’s theatre. With a focus on lighting, set and costumes as well as an in-depth look at the various  technical roles found in today’s theatre, students will gain a strong understanding of the components needed in order for a stage production to be successful. In this course, students will have an opportunity to take the initial steps in theatre design. By viewing established work, critiquing what they see and taking steps to create their own vision, students will grow a greater appreciation for the work of technical theatre artists.

  • Visual Art 7

    VISUAL ART 7 
    Grade 7
    #FX885

    In this class students will organize and develop artistic ideas and be given the opportunity to refine their work to successful completion.(www.nationalartstandards.org) 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 art work.
     

  • Visual Art 8

    VISUAL ART 8
    Grade 8
    #FX886

    Building off the seventh grade curriculum students will further develop their creative problem solving skills. In this course students will engage in hands on activities that encourage them to embrace the influences of the creative world around them. Using the elements and principles of design as foundational building blocks students will work toward establishing their artistic identity. Students will utilize a variety of art media to create two and three-dimensional works of art while building an appreciation for, and drawing inspiration from, the art of many cultures. Students will be responsible for maintaining a cumulative portfolio of their art work.
     

  • Architectural Construction-A

    ARCHITECTURAL CONSTRUCTION
    Grades 9-12
    #835 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites    : None

    Description: In architecture, plan drawings and 3D building models are made to present architectural ideas and help architects and clients visualize buildings to be built. This course investigates the process of bringing a building “to life” through drawings and 3D model making. Basic perspective theories and rendering concepts will be introduced to help students make drawings to visualize a finished building from two-dimensional plans. Using such plans, students will then investigate ways of making scale 3D models for the buildings. Model making using “by hand” techniques and model making using digital tools, like CAD and laser cutting will be investigated.

  • Architectural Drawing-A

    ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING
    Grades 9-12
    #836 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites    : None

    Description: This course is designed for students interested in exploring architectural rendering techniques. Through a series of drawing exercises, students will create drawings architects use in the building process, like floor plans, building elevations and perspective drawings.  Techniques such as using an architect's scale ruler to make accurate drawings “to scale” will be explored.  Students will also gain skill creating drawings with a sense of 3D space by learning techniques of one and two point perspective drawing and learning techniques of shading to convey depth from light sources.  Elements of architectural styles will be presented to gain a background and vocabulary for discussing and making architecture. In a final project, students will create a set of architectural drawings for a work from a set of planning options.

  • 3D Design & Sculpture-A

    3D DESIGN & SCULPTURE
    Grades 9-12
    #824 Accelerated
    One Semester
    Prerequisites: None
    Description: This studio course is an introduction to 3D form and structure. In the course students will be exposed to various 3D design and construction techniques. Students will explore the structure and  composition of commonly used materials, such as cardboard, wood, metal, plaster and found objects. In addition to class projects students will be expected to create a major independent 3D project per term in the sculptural medium of their choice.
     

  • Studio Art IIA-A

    STUDIO ART IIA
    Grades 11-12
    #829 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites    : Drawing & Painting

    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, pen and ink, paint and as they create art forms. Art history, aesthetics, and criticism will be integrated with studio-production in all aspects of art making.  A term project based on art appreciation and art criticism is required each quarter. During the semester students will build a comprehensive portfolio that can be used for college admittance. NOTE: The student may complete a full year in Studio Art II by taking Studio Art IIA followed by Studio Art IIB.

  • Studio Art IIB-A

    STUDIO ART IIB
    Grades 11-12
    #830 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites    : Drawing & Painting

    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, pen and ink, paint and as they create art forms. Art history, aesthetics, and criticism will be integrated with studio-production in all aspects of art making. A term project based on art appreciation and art criticism is required each quarter. During the semester students will build a comprehensive portfolio that can be used for college admittance.

  • Digital Photography & Graphic Design-A

    DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY & GRAPHIC DESIGN
    Grades 11, 12
    #828 Accelerated
    One Semester

    Prerequisites:      None

    Description: In this course through a combination of demonstrations, lectures, and critiques students will gain knowledge of digital photography and digital image editing and graphic design. Students will learn a basic vocabulary as it relates to both contemporary and traditional photography. As they complete daily class assignments, students will establish interesting and strong compositions using the camera as the primary medium and applying this knowledge toward creating original, strong, interesting digital images. Specific attention will be given to the process of graphic design and photographic manipulation and application.

  • AP Drawing

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

    Prerequisites    : Successful completion of Drawing & Painting, departmental interview, and approval.

    Description: Develop your skills in drawing as you experiment with different materials and processes. You’ll create artwork that reflects your own ideas and skills and what you’ve learned.

  • Public Speaking-A

    INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC SPEAKING
    Grades 10-12
    #846 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.

  • Film Studies & Design-A

    FILM STUDIES & DESIGN
    Grades 10-12
    #847 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!

  • Chorus I-A

    CHORUS I
    Grades 9-12
    #862 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.

  • Band I-A

    BAND I-A
    Grades 9-12
    #871 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.  

  • Music Theory I-A

    MUSIC THEORY I
    Grades 9-12
    #852 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. 

  • Music Business & Production-A

    MUSIC BUSINESS & PRODUCTION
    Grades 9-12
    #872 Accelerated
    One Semester
    Prerequisites: None

    Description: This course provides an overview of the modern music industry, gained through discussion, hands-on projects, and guest presentations from music business professionals. Course content includes the recording industry, copyright, publishing, promotion, and entrepreneurship, with special attention given to the role of the internet in the music business. This course also examines the diverse career options available in music.  In this course students will learn and practice techniques for recording, editing, mixing and editing film and television sound. Special emphasis will be given to individual and collaborative creative projects. Students will learn how to use a desktop audio workstation as well proper techniques for recording sound in various environments.  Students will also be instructed in the use of video equipment and video editing software. 

  • Senior Recital

    SENIOR RECITAL
    Grade 12
    #870 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 Mr. Daigle and their 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.

  • AP Music Theory

    AP MUSIC THEORY
    Grade 12
    #860 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.

  • 2D Mixed Media-A

    2D MIXED MEDIA
    Grades 9-12
    # 822 Accelerated
    One Semester
    Prerequisites: none
    Description: The 2D Mixed Media course is a studio project-orientated art class exploring different media on a two-dimensional surface. The emphasis of this course is to expose students to 2D art mediums, to build their creative skills through the elements of design, and to learn about artists who pushed the boundaries of traditional art. Projects may include: drip painting, printmaking, abstract drawing, collage, multimedia, optical art, image manipulation, mosaics, and more. Some artists discussed will be Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Banksy, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keefe, Mark Rothko, and Wassily Kandinsky.

  • AP 2-D Art and Design

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

    Prerequisites    : Successful completion of Drawing & Painting, departmental interview, and approval.

    Description: Develop your 2-D skills through materials and processes such as graphic design, photography, collage, printmaking, fashion illustration, and others. You’ll create artwork that reflects your own ideas and skills and what you’ve learned.

  • AP 3-D Art and Design

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

    Prerequisites:     Successful completion of Drawing & Painting, departmental interview, and approval.

    Description:     Develop 3-D skills in materials and processes, such as sculpture, architectural rendering and models, metal work, ceramics, glass work, and others. You’ll create artwork that reflects your own ideas and skills and what you’ve learned.

  • Band II-H

    BAND II
    Grades 10-12
    #877 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
    #878 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
    #879 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. 

  • Beginning Guitar-A

    BEGINNING GUITAR
    Grades 9-12
    #854 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.

  • Chamber Choir-H

    CHAMBER CHOIR

    Grades 10-12

    #866 Honors

    Full Year


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


    Description: Chamber Choir 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. In addition, this ensemble will have more performing opportunities throughout the year, including MICCA Festival and outside collaborations.

  • Chorus II-H

    CHORUS II
    Grades 9-12
    #863 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
    #864 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
    #865 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.

  • Drawing & Painting-A

    Drawing & Painting
    Grades 9-12
    # 825 Accelerated
    One Semester
    Prerequisites: none
    Description: In this introduction to drawing and painting course we will learn how to draw accurately, make objects, people, landscapes, cityscapes, and animals look real, we will learn the basics of painting with acrylic paint, we will discuss wet and dry media, we will draw portraits from life in school and at home, and we will learn different styles of drawing and painting through the years from impressionist painting to cartoons.  Artists we will discuss are Edward Monet, Mary Cassatt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Edward Hopper, Janet Fish, Frank Miller, Norman Rockwell, Winslow Homer, Stan Lee, and more.

  • Jazz Band I-A

    JAZZ BAND I
    Grades 9-12
    #871 Accelerated
    One Semester

    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
    #872 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
    #873 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. 

  • Orchestra I-A

    ORCHESTRA I
    Grades 9-12
    #873 Accelerated
    Full Year
     
    Prerequisites: None
     
    Description: Orchestra I is open to students of all levels who want to learn to play an instrument. Students can learn to play the violin, viola or cello. There is no entry requirement and no experience is necessary. The orchestra performs several concerts and events throughout the year. 

  • Orchestra II-H

    ORCHESTRA II
    Grades 10-12
    #878 Honors
    Full Year
     
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Orchestra I-A or departmental approval
     
    Description: Orchestra (level II) is an honors level course that builds on skills and techniques learned in Orchestra I. This course offers instruction on orchestra string instruments with a focus on group performance. The orchestra performs many events throughout the year including concerts and festivals. 

  • Orchestra III-H

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

  • Screenwriting-A

    SCREENWRITING
    Grades: 9-12
    #850 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!

  • Theater I-A

    THEATER I: ACTING, DIRECTING, AND MOVEMENT
    Grades: 9-12
    #851 Accelerated
    One Semester
    Prerequisites: None
    Course Description:
    This course will offer students an introduction into acting, directing, and movement! By studying physical and vocal nuances when presenting different kinds of theatrical pieces, students will learn the expectation artists are asked to meet in order to reach an audience. By studying the theatrical space more in-depth, students will learn how to utilize the stage in a more creative, thought-provoking way. The course also provides an introduction into dance, providing students with a space in which to explore the art of expression through movement.

  • Theater II-H

    THEATER II
    Grades: 10-12
    #853 Honors
    One Semester (Spring)
    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. Students may choose to read plays and create the set and costume designs of the plays. Students may also choose to focus their talents on monologue and scene work delving into such styles as Shakespearian and realism. Students will work in the Xploration Center on their designs and create a 3D model of the set!
    Optional component: Students in this course will have the opportunity to perform in Xaverian’s competition piece at the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild (METG) festival. Those students will need to audition for this class in the spring and be available on the festival weekends (of the following year) in order for Xaverian to compete. Classes will be spent discussing and rehearsing for our performance at METG.
    METG says the following are the likely dates for 2023:
    Preliminary Round: March 4, 2023
    Semi-Final Round: March 18, 2023
    Final Round: March 29 - April 1, 2023

  • Theater III-H

    THEATER III
    Grades: 11-12
    #854 Honors
    One Semester (Spring)
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Theater II or departmental approval
    Course Description: In this course, students will have the opportunity to build upon their experiences in Theater I and Theater II as they break down characters, relationships, plot, and themes to immerse themselves into the story at hand. Students may choose to read plays and create the set and costume designs of the plays. Students may also choose to focus their talents on monologue and scene work delving into such styles as Shakespearian and realism. Students will work in the Xploration Center on their designs and create a 3D model of the set!
    Optional component: Students in this course will have the opportunity to perform in Xaverian’s competition piece at the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild (METG) festival. Those students will need to audition for this class in the spring and be available on the festival weekends (of the following year) in order for Xaverian to compete. Classes will be spent discussing and rehearsing for our performance at METG.
    METG says the following are the likely dates for 2023:
    Preliminary Round: March 4, 2023
    Semi-Final Round: March 18, 2023
    Final Round: March 29 - April 1, 2023

  • Theater IV-H

    THEATER IV
    Grades: 11-12
    #855 Honors
    One Semester (Spring)
    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. Students may choose to read plays and create the set and costume designs of the plays. Students may also choose to focus their talents on monologue and scene work delving into such styles as Shakespearian and realism. Students will work in the Xploration Center on their designs and create a 3D model of the set!
    Optional component: Students in this course will have the opportunity to perform in Xaverian’s competition piece at the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild (METG) festival. Those students will need to audition for this class in the spring and be available on the festival weekends (of the following year) in order for Xaverian to compete. Classes will be spent discussing and rehearsing for our performance at METG.
    METG says the following are the likely dates for 2023:
    Preliminary Round: March 4, 2023
    Semi-Final Round: March 18, 2023
    Final Round: March 29 - April 1, 2023

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 William Ricciardelli
    William Ricciardelli
    Berklee College of Music - B.M.
    2020
  • Photo of Timothy Roberts
    Timothy Roberts
    New England Conservatory - B.A.
    Northwestern University - M.A.
    2019
    Bio

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.