VPA classes are optional, seventh classes for ninth graders. These acting, art, chorus, dance, and instrumental music classes meet formally once a week during block 7 or 8, and have additional informal meetings or online expectations at other times during the week. Block 7 and 8 classes require good time management and discipline, but also allow students to develop their creativity and problem-solving skills, and to enroll in more advanced VPA courses in future years. There is time built into the sophomore year schedule for all students to enroll in a block 1-6 VPA course.
Listed below is the full list of VPA courses available for ninth graders and to learn about audition expectations:
Full descriptions of all VPA courses and programs may be found at
https://www.shcp.edu/academics/category/visual-performing-arts. Please contact the specific VPA teachers listed below with additional questions. All video submissions are due to:
VPA@shcp.edu by May 1.
ACTING
Acting 1,2: Short monologue assessment, in person or video submission. Memorization preferred, but short scripts will also be provided. Click this link for more information. Contact Mr. Morris at
smorris@shcp.edu with questions. Location: Theater
ART
Art 1,2: Drawing assessment test in person, including submission of pictures of three pieces of original art after the test. Click this link for more information. No previous formal art experience required. Please contact Mr. McHugh at
bmchugh@shcp.edu for more information. Location: Art Room / 704.
CHORUS
Concert Choir 1,2: One on one vocal assessment to determine range, musicianship, and general vocal tone. Prior choral or vocal experience preferred but not required. Please contact Ms. Smith at
rsmith@shcp.edu or Mr. Michael Kerschner at
mkerschner@shcp.edu for more information. Location: Chorus Room / 703
Women’s Ensemble 1,2: One on one vocal assessment to determine range, musicianship, and general vocal tone. No previous singing experience required. Please contact Ms. Smith at
rsmith@shcp.edu for more information. Location: Chorus Room / 703
DANCE
Advanced Dance 3,4: Audition will be a Contemporary Ballet technique class. Candidates should wear appropriate dance attire and footwear. Students may also submit a video submission of a prepared solo piece or past performance. Please contact Ms. Wexler at
lwexler@shcp.edu for more information. Location: Dance Studio / 701
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
Concert Band 1,2: Video submission (audition). Audition material (short musical excerpt and scales) will be provided for each instrument class (woodwinds, brass, percussion, keyboard, amplified instruments) for students to prepare. Students are also allowed to submit additional video of performance(s) on their primary instrument. Some experience on an instrument required. Please contact Mr. Smith at
msmith@shcp.edu for more information. Location: Band Room / 702
String Ensemble 1,2: Video submission (audition). Audition material (short musical excerpt and scales) will be provided for each instrument class (violin, viola, cello, bass, keyboard) for students to prepare. Students are also allowed to submit additional video of performance(s) on their primary instrument. Some experience on an instrument required. Please contact Mr. Smith at
msmith@shcp.edu for more information. Location: Band Room / 702