Visual & Performing Arts

Students will spend the first portion of the term learning techniques from some of the masters of the art, then will study the work and criticism of a wide variety of authors, from Aristotle through Shakespeare to contemporary playwrights. Students will develop their work in class through the use of improvisation, group dialogue construction, and peer criticism, finishing the semester with polished, dramatically sound works.

In this course, we will rehearse and perform one or more short plays selected to match the group taking the class. We will go through a portion of the rehearsal process each time we meet: read-throughs, blocking, character study, and polish. A variety of techniques will be used in the development of the play, each chosen to best magnify and develop the talents of the participants. At the end of the term, we will invite an audience!

There are as many ways to learn acting as there have been teachers of acting. In this course, we will explore the techniques of some of the greatest teachers of all time, including Uta Hagen, Sanford Meisner, Lee Strasberg, Michael Chekov, Stella Adler, and of course, Constantin Stanislavski. Stanislavski's eight principles will be employed as students work on scenes and monologues to be presented in class. Improvisation, science study, and test analysis techniques will be developed, and students will leave the course with a thorough understanding of how actors approach their craft. In addition to performing, students will give a final presentation in class on the work and techniques of a great acting teacher or director.

Foundational music concepts are studied and applied as students gain a greater understanding of a variety of genres and compositions through active listening. Connections are explored between genres, historical eras, and current music. Engaging, creative activities foster the appreciation of music as an expressive art form. This course satisfies Kent’s music graduation requirement.

Students learn the elemental concepts of music theory, including basic notation, intervals, scale structures, key signatures, triads, basic chord progressions, and the first stage of melodic & harmonic analysis. Music theory skills (sight-singing, dictation & ear training) and composition basics are an integral part of this course.

Melodic & harmonic analysis continues with the introduction of more intermediate concepts such as secondary triads. Students arrange music for small ensembles, gain knowledge about orchestral instruments, and begin full score reading & conducting. Music theory skills continue. Prerequisite: Music Theory 1.

In this continuation of Music Theory 2, students are introduced to chromatic harmony, functional seventh chords, key modulation, and analysis of small forms. Music theory skills are further developed. Student compositions are performed at the conclusion of the term. Prerequisite: Music Theory 2.

The origins and development of jazz as a musical genre will be examined. From its African-influenced roots to its modern-day amalgamation of styles, jazz as a means of musical expression will be researched and analyzed. Students will be exposed to the experience of listening to jazz in its various historical adaptations.

The origins, evolution, and influence of the blues as a musical art form through its impact on American culture and society will be explored. The course will be based on lectures, listening examples, lyric readings and analysis, and associated references.

The history and evolution of rock music will be examined through analysis, cultural and historical alignment, listening, and its impact on society. The rock era will be divided into various periods and discussions of various influential musical artists and their work will be examined.

The Concert Band, Concert Choir, and Orchestra are graded credit-earning ensembles. Three terms of dedicated involvement in any of these ensembles satisfy the music requirement for graduation. The Concert Band is comprised of students, faculty, and some community members. The Concert Band studies classic, modern, and “pop” literature and performs throughout the year. The Orchestra studies classical, modern, “pops,” and global literature, and performs throughout the year. The Concert Choir is a large, mixed choral ensemble open to all students. This larger choir gives newer singers a wonderful opportunity to learn about quality choral singing techniques. More seasoned singers will enjoy singing with a larger group, and the extensive, challenging, and fun repertoire is available for this size ensemble.

This course is an examination of the equipment and techniques used in live sound and studio recording applications Topics include acoustics, microphones, mixers, effects, sound production and reinforcement, and ethical and legal issues. This course can apply toward the fulfillment of the Pre-Engineering Certificate.

This course serves as an introduction to the equipment and methods used in software-based music composition, arranging, and multi-track recording. Students will create original musical projects. Topics include electronic composition, sound production techniques, digital audio workstations, and MIDI. This course can apply toward the fulfillment of the Pre-Engineering Certificate. No prerequisite is required, however, Music Technology I or a music background is suggested.

This course is a continuation of Music Technology 2 including advanced recording and post-production techniques. In addition, music promotion and marketing methods will be examined. Topics include advanced studio production techniques, film scoring, mastering and post-production, and promotion and marketing. This course can apply toward the fulfillment of the Pre-Engineering Certificate. Prerequisite: Music Technology 2.

This course is designed to introduce students to the basic tenets of visual art, including two- and three-dimensional studio projects, independent and collaborative work, and art history as an inspiration for studio assignments.

Students are expected to begin with an overall concept of the work but can expand their initial ideas or media of choice. They are encouraged to delve deeply into their concepts and may draw upon numerous artistic models introduced each term for inspiration and aesthetic refinement. Students may choose the faculty members who facilitate their unique creative odyssey and are supported with frequent critiques and discussions of their work. Portfolios will be reviewed for effort, creativity, innovation, skill, and refinement. Students will also complete frequent self-evaluations of their creative processes. Prerequisites: one art course at Kent School, summer study, and departmental portfolio review.

This is a course in which students seek experimental solutions representing three-dimensional models and two-dimensional drawings and the properties and qualities of space. Projects include perspective drawing, design, scale plans, elevations, and models. This course also attempts to respond to the dynamic nature of contemporary architecture.

Ceramics focuses on the use of the potter’s wheel and some hand-building techniques. Students research several ceramists, sketch their vessels, and gain the confidence to work with this ancient medium. Students work with a range of decoration methods, including slip, oxides, and high-fire glazes.

Digital Imaging teaches students how to use a digital camera and manipulate their files using the Adobe Creative Suite. Students explore digital imagery and digital capture while expanding their understanding of computer software. Since the computer has become an essential tool for designing and manipulating images, the process’s instant results help increase the learning rate.

Students work with a variety of techniques and media to create portraits, still lifes, and landscapes. A range of conceptual and aesthetic challenges inherent in contemporary drawing or “work on paper” are considered. Representational skills are honed, but the artist’s voice is encouraged.

If a student is interested in photography, we recommend starting with film and a manual camera. Film is still relevant for fine art photography, and studying film first will improve a student’s digital images. Some students choose to work analog through the advanced level, but others transition into digital images after completing one term.

Students learn to sketch their designs and transform basic patterns to construct a garment. Selecting and cutting fabric in tandem with the use of the sewing machine is accomplished in one term. Students explore various historical periods and contemporary fashion to inspire their work and consider the difference between appropriation and appreciation in their influences.

This class probes the techniques and materials of oil painting within the context of still life, portraiture, and landscape. The students also explore color as a means of artistic expression and are encouraged to complete oil sketches to stimulate their creative process. Topics include color theory, design issues with color, developing ideas for painting, abstraction, and contemporary painting approaches.

This course addresses the inclusive nature of contemporary sculpture and 3-D design. Students explore traditional and innovative materials and techniques. Topics vary each term and have included: portraiture, site-based installation, modular constructions, relief, and mobiles. Students research various artists and cultures to inspire their creative process and to sketch and document their ideas.