Music, Performing & Visual Arts

Art 9
Art 10 (5 credits)
Art 20 (5 credits)
Art 30 (5 credits)

Art 9 explores a more individual approach to creating art.  Projects will reflect individual skills and personal creativity while developing basic skills and understanding in the elements of art (line, shape/form, value, texture, colour, and space) and principles of design (emphasis, balance, contrast, repetition, pattern, movement, and variety).  Art history and art criticism will be introduced. Students will learn the artistic process and refine their skills through the exploration of various materials such as painting, sculpture, and drawing. Artistic talent is not a pre-requisite for this course. Any student who is willing to try can enjoy this course and experience success.

Art 10 is open to any students with an interest in art or creative practice. Each unit begins with a variety of exercises to learn techniques, followed by a larger art project.  Focus is on developing basic skills and understanding in the elements of art (line, shape/form, value, texture, colour, and space) and principles of design (emphasis, balance, contrast, repetition, pattern, movement, and variety). Students are encouraged to explore the mediums, develop their own creative process, and create unique works of art. Critique and the development of conceptual ideas is introduced.

Art 20 focuses on refining artistic techniques as well as developing a creative voice. Students work through a series of units exploring conceptual ideas and communicating meaning in their artwork. Students further develop skills in elements of art (line, shape/form, value, texture, colour, and space) and principles of design (emphasis, balance, contrast, repetition, pattern, movement, and variety). Students continue to explore a variety of mediums, develop their own creative process, and create unique works of art. Critique and the development of conceptual ideas is also an important part of the Art process. Prerequisite: Art 10

Art 30 pushes students to develop their own artistic style, conceptual themes, and refining techniques in various mediums. Students work through drawings and independent studio projects over the course of the term. Students further refine their application of the elements of art and principles of design. Critique and the development of conceptual ideas is further encouraged in the Art process. Prerequisite: Art 20

Drama 9
Drama 10 (5 credit)
Drama 20 (5 credit)
Drama 30 (5 credits)

Drama and theater provide the means not only to reconstruct the world as it is, but also to model human possibilities.  In this course you will enhance your understanding of drama by participating in productions, interacting with experts in the field, and acquiring practical and theoretical foundations.  During your studies you will gain creative thinking skills, research and analytical capabilities, written, verbal and physical communication skill, as well as rigorous practical and theoretical training in drama.

Film Studies 9
Film Studies 15 (5 credit)
Film Studies 25 (5 credit)
Film Studies 35 (5 credits)

For the past century motion pictures have flourished as the most pervasive medium for entertainment and expression, blending art with new technology in ever-changing ways.  Film Studies explores the kind of art form film is today, as well as the ways this medium has developed and shaped popular culture around the world over the past hundred years.  From an examination of prevalent film genres, and significant directors, to the place of different national cinema traditions in an increasingly globalized context, Film Studies provides critical tools as well as the historical and theoretical frameworks for making sense of visual culture in the twenty-first century.

Charles Spencer High School offers students training and performance opportunities in Choir, Band, Orchestra and Digital Music. 

The central aims of our music program are:
- Experience performing a variety of literature from traditional to popular.
- Develop an aesthetic appreciation and understanding of music as an art form.
- Provide opportunities for self-expression.
- Develop character, confidence and personal leadership.
- Provide training for those who aspire a career in music.

Band 9, 10, 20 and 30
The Charles Spencer Band is composed of a variety of wind-based instruments and percussion.  A basic ability to play and read music is required.

Choir 9, 10, 20 and 30
The Charles Spencer Choir is open to all interested students.  A basic ability to read music is recommended, but not required.

Orchestra 9, 10, 20 and 30
The Charles Spencer Orchestra is a string orchestra for students in grades 9 through 12.  A basic ability to play an orchestral instrument is required.

Digital Music 9, 10, 20 and 30
Courses in digital music are offered at various times throughout the year.  Students use software and MIDI technology to create music, as well as soundtracks and sound effects.

Guitar
A five-credit course in Guitar is offered each semester depending on student interest.  Students in grades 10-12 will receive credit in Guitar 15, 25 or 35.  Students do not need previous playing experience, but they will need to bring their own guitar (electric or acoustic).