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Fine and Performing Arts

The Fine and Performing Arts Department which includes art, drama and vocal music offers courses as well as clubs, organizations, plays and several choirs to consider. We are committed to nurturing the artistic talent of students who choose to take a course or participate in the many extra curricular choices we have to offer.

Fine arts  fosters an appreciation and an awareness of the beauty that
surrounds us in the world. Students are instructed in the skills and disciplines necessary to create a fine work of art. Those students who wish to enter the art field as a career are also given a very practical approach in their accumulation of work for the purpose of obtaining a job or gaining entry into college. Fine arts inspires students to become aware of their hidden potential and gifts, challenges their creativity, and encourages them to convey their feelings and thoughts through
the visual media.

Drama classes provide opportunities to improve communication, problem solving, creative and analytical skills. By creating, performing, analyzing, and critiquing dramatic performances, students will build confidence and develop a deeper understanding and acceptance of personal issues and a broader understanding and appreciation of life around them as reflected in the realm of theatre.

Music offerings foster a life-long appreciation and enjoyment of music. By offering non-performance based classes that focus on music history, music creation, and music sharing, as well as choral ensembles that perform a variety of musical styles throughout the year, all students have the ability to experience and express themselves through music.

Course Offerings

List of 23 items.

  • Art Exploration

    1 semester, 1/2 credit
    Open to 9, 10, 11, 12

    This introductory course is open to any student who has an interest and/or appreciation for art. Any student will discover her creative ability, learn to meet goals, and enjoy the process of making art. A student will learn about and implement the elements and principles of design, as well as study the artistic styles throughout history. Although this class is a building block for the serious student who wishes to take AP Studio Art, a student does not have to have artistic ability or experience to enroll in Art Exploration.
  • Drawing and Painting

    1 semester, 1/2 credit
    Open to 10, 11, 12

    The student will use and implement the Elements and Principles of Design, as well as Rules of Composition, as she is exposed to  different drawing and painting techniques and styles including: still life, landscape, abstract, and portraiture. A focus in color theory principles will be implemented using dry, wet, and mixed media.
  • Graphic Imaging and Design I

    1 semester, 1/2  credit
    Open to 9,10,11,12

    This “STEM-compatible” art course explores the creation process and practical application of modern Digital Imaging through the use of technology. A student does not need to have artistic ability or computer skills to enroll in this course. Course topics include composition, ethics in digital imaging, digital photo retouching and photo manipulation, digital illustration, logo design/branding and publishing. Students in this course will learn to use Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, the industry-standard software for Graphic Design and Publishing. This is an art course designed for students interested in a overview of art and design in real world applications such as graphic design, visual communications, marketing and advertising, technology, and  digital photography. 
  • Graphic Imaging and Design II

    1 semester, 1/2  credit
    Open to 10,11,12

    This course is a continuation of Graphic Imaging and Design 1. Students will grow in proficiency with the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign), while deepening their understanding of digital design concepts. The course encourages
    students to explore personal artistic interests and the real-world applications of digital design. Project-based assignments will lead students to investigate digital art as related to the fields of graphic design, visual communication, marketing and advertising, technology, and digital photography.
  • AP Studio Art: Drawing

    1 year, 1 credit
    Open to 11, 12
    Prerequisite: Portfolio review and department recommendation.

    This course is designed to mirror a college level freshman art and design class. Students will create a portfolio of work and written inquiry, focusing on investigation through practice and  experimentation and revision. Through this process students
    will grow into independent thinkers who will contribute to their culture through art making. Students who choose this portfolio will start with summer assignments and then work on projects in class including observational reviews or work. Students will be required to enter art work in selected art shows and competitions and participate in Evening of the Arts.

    The Drawing portfolio emphasizes use of composition, mark making quality, surface, and depth. Work can be representational or abstract. Students may use 15 drawing and painting mediums only. Portfolio requirements: 15 minimum works in a Sustained Investigation and written documentation of the investigation. 5 selected works and written statements that show quality of art, synthesis of ideas and use of materials. Photographs will be taken of all works and students will submit digital and physical works  and writings to the College Board for review in May during AP testing. The 2-D Portfolio cannot be repeated. Students will be responsible for some supplies.
  • AP Studio Art: 2-D Design

    1 year, 1 credit
    Open to 11, 12
    Prerequisite: Portfolio review and department recommendation.

    This course is designed to mirror a college level freshman art and design class. Students will create a portfolio of work and written inquiry, focusing on investigation through practice and experimentation and revision. Through this process students
    will grow into independent thinkers who will contribute to their culture through art making. Students who choose this portfolio will start with summer assignments and then work on projects in class including observational reviews or work. Students will be required to enter art work in selected art shows and competitions and participate in Evening of the Arts.

    The 2-D portfolio emphasizes the elements and principles of design. Students may use photography, digital design, painting, drawing, or collage in their investigations of 2-D design. Portfolio requirements: 15 minimum works in a Sustained Investigation and written documentation of the investigation. 5 selected works and
    written statements that show quality of art, synthesis of ideas and use of materials. Photographs will be taken of all works and students will submit digital and physical works and writings to the College Board for review in May during AP testing. The 2-D Portfolio cannot be repeated. Students will be responsible for some supplies.
  • AP Studio Art: 3-D Design

    1 year, 1 credit
    Open to 11, 12
    Prerequisite: Portfolio review and department recommendation.

    This course is designed to mirror a college level freshman art and design class. Students will create a portfolio of work and written inquiry, focusing on investigation through practice and experimentation and revision. Through this process students
    will grow into independent thinkers who will contribute to their culture through art making. Students who choose this portfolio will start with summer assignments and then work on projects in class including observational reviews or work. Students
    will be required to enter art work in selected art shows and competitions and participate in Evening of the Arts.

    The 3-D portfolio emphasizes sculptural 3-D design issues including integration of space, volume, and surface. Students may explore pottery, fashion, jewelry, mixed media, 3D printing and sculpture. Portfolio requirements: 15 minimum works in a
    Sustained Investigation and written documentation of the investigation. 5 Selected Works and written statements that show quality of art, synthesis of ideas and use of materials. Photographs will be taken of all works and students will submit digital
    students will submit digital 16 works and writings to the College Board for review in May during AP testing.
  • Pottery I

    1 semester, 1/2 credit
    Open to 10, 11, 12

    This course covers the basic principles and elements of design and the tactile qualities of clay. Students explore the methods of pinch, coil, slab, and combination of forming their ceramic structures as well as glaze application.
  • Pottery II

    1 semester, 1/2 credit
    Open to 10, 11, 12
    Prerequisite: A or B average in Pottery I

    All aspects of wheel throwing will be emphasized in this course. Time permitting, three-dimensional clay sculpture will also be covered.
  • Introduction to Acting

    1 semester, 1/2 credit
    Open to 9, 10 
    Marian and Brother Rice Students

    This course is designed to offer an introduction to various aspects of acting. It will include basic acting principles, basic vocal production, pantomime, improvisation, character and play analysis. Students will perform creatively from monologues, scene studies, and one-act plays.
  • Technical Theater & Design

    1 semester, 1/2 credit
    Open to 9, 10, 11, 12 
    Marian and Brother Rice Students

    This course will give students an understanding of the 2D & 3D artistic aspects of a theatre production. They will learn the fundamentals of scenic painting, props design and construction, and costume design and construction. They will also explore creating set and costume designs for productions.
  • Intro to Film

    1 semester, 1/2 credit,
    Open to 9, 10, 11, 12
    Marian and Brother Rice Students

    This course will give students an introduction to aspects of film-making including elements of film theory; basics of directing; film composition, including lighting, camera work, sound design, and editing; and an introduction to careers available in film-making. Students will use their knowledge to create multiple short film projects to present in class as well as during Marian’s spring Evening of the Arts event.
  • Honors Concert Choir I

    2 semesters, 1 credit
    Open to 9, 10, 11, 12
    Marian and Brother Rice students

    Honors Concert Choir is a mixed choral ensemble. A variety of musical styles and periods will be rehearsed, discussed and performed. Students will also work on vocal technique, basic theory, singing in various languages and performing several a cappella pieces to practice proper intonation. Dress rehearsals, all performances, and concert dress are required.
    Marian students will receive honors credit through: Auditioning for the Michigan School Vocal Music Association Honors Choir, participating in the MSVMA Solo & Ensemble Festival, and by attending a pre-approved concert each semester and writing a reflection paper.
  • Honors Concert Choir 2

    2 semesters, 1 credit
    Open to 10, 11, 12
    Marian and Brother Rice students

    Honors Concert Choir is a mixed choral ensemble. A variety of musical styles and periods will be rehearsed, discussed and performed. Students will also work on vocal technique, basic theory, singing in various languages and performing several a cappella pieces to practice proper intonation. Dress rehearsals, all performances, and concert dress are required.
    Marian students will receive honors credit through: Auditioning for the Michigan School Vocal Music Association Honors Choir, participating in the MSVMA Solo & Ensemble Festival, and by attending a pre-approved concert each semester and writing a reflection paper.
  • Honors Concert Choir 3

    2 semesters, 1 credit
    Open to 11, 12
    Marian and Brother Rice students
     
    Honors Concert Choir is a mixed choral ensemble. A variety of musical styles and periods will be rehearsed, discussed and performed. Students will also work on vocal technique, basic theory, singing in various languages and performing several a cappella pieces to practice proper intonation. Dress rehearsals, all performances, and concert dress are required.
    Marian students will receive honors credit through: Auditioning for the Michigan School Vocal Music Association Honors Choir, participating in the MSVMA Solo & Ensemble Festival, and by attending a pre-approved concert each semester and writing a reflection paper.
  • Honors Concert Choir 4

    2 semesters, 1 credit
    Open to 12
    Marian and Brother Rice students

    Honors Concert Choir is a mixed choral ensemble. A variety of musical styles and periods will be rehearsed, discussed and performed. Students will also work on vocal technique, basic theory, singing in various languages and performing several a cappella pieces to practice proper intonation. Dress rehearsals, all performances, and concert dress are required.
    Marian students will receive honors credit through: Auditioning for the Michigan School Vocal Music Association Honors Choir, participating in the MSVMA Solo & Ensemble Festival, and by attending a pre-approved concert each semester and writing a reflection paper.
  • Music Technology in the 21st Century

    1 semester, 1/2 credit
    Open to 9, 10, 11 and 12

    No prior musical training is required and this is not a performing class. This is a course in the creation of music through the application of technology. Students will also think about how to analyze musical sound and understand “what we hear.”
    Through self-directed projects, students will learn how to compose, sample and analyze music. We will also share music through podcasts, homemade music videos, and playlists while creating a clear, compelling, and precise evidence-based musical language.
  • Beginning Concert Ensemble

    2 semesters, 1 credit.
    Open to 9, 10, 11, 12
    Course may be repeated.

    This course is open to all students who currently play a traditional band or orchestra instrument, or who would like to learn one of these instruments. In this class, the students will receive guidance in techniques for producing proper tone, pitch, rhythm, posture, dynamics, and performance at the beginning levels. Students will develop a great appreciation and deep understanding of music, how it is created, and how to perform. Students will also learn the life skills that come with being an ensemble member. This course is designed for beginning students, 9th and 10th grade students, and students with one or less years of experience on their instrument.
  • Jazz Band

    2 semesters, 1/2 credit, No audition necessary.
    Open to 9, 10, 11, 12
    Prerequisite:  Must commit to a full year. Approval of Band Instructor

    Performing ensemble organized to study and perform the various styles of jazz music; including, but not limited to, big band dance music, pop and rock, ballads, and blues. This class is taught at Brother Rice. This class meets daily, before school.
  • Drumline

    2 semesters, 1/2 credit, No audition necessary.
    Open to 9, 10, 11, 12
    Prerequisite:  Must commit to a full year. Approval of Band Instructor

    This class is an ensemble open to students interested in performing in a drumline, regardless of musical experience. NO musical experience is required. Beginners are taught alongside those with prior musical knowledge, which creates an atmosphere
    of camaraderie as the more experienced students mentor the beginners. Students will spend class time developing the proper playing technique and music reading skills necessary to perform on a variety of percussion instruments. Drum line is also a class designed to help build self-esteem (playing solos, achievement),
    cooperation (playing in an ensemble), and life skills (practice, study, commitment) through the discipline required to learn to play an instrument. We will also provide service to the school community and strive to foster school pride. This class is taught at Brother Rice.
  • Intermediate Concert Ensemble

    2 semesters, 1 credit.
    Open to 9, 10, 11, 12 students with two (2) or three (3) years of private lesson experience on their instrument. Course may be repeated.

    In this class students will receive guidance in creating a balanced and blended ensemble sound. Students will play intermediate to late-intermediate repertoire with a commitment to excellence. Students will also learn the life skills that come with being an ensemble member. This course is designed for intermediate students, 11th and 12th grade students, and younger students who have auditioned. This course may be repeated and other school events.

    This course is taught at Brother Rice.
  • Guitar I

    1 semester, 1/2 credit
    Open to 9,10,11,12, no audition necessary

    Guitar 1 is the first semester of a year-long, performance based class. The course offers instruction in the fundamentals of guitar, regardless of previous experience. Students will receive guidance in reading music, tablature, playing traditional and power chords, strumming, picking and many styles of literature, including rock.
    The class will perform together as an ensemble at one concert each semester.
  • Guitar II

    1 semester, 1/2 credit
    Open to 9,10,11,12, Approval of Band Instructor 

    Guitar 2 is the second semester of a year-long, performance based class. The course offers instruction in the fundamentals of guitar, regardless of previous experience. Students will receive guidance in reading music, tablature, playing traditional and power chords, strumming, picking and many styles of literature, including rock. The class will perform together as an ensemble at one concert each semester. 

List of 4 members.

  • Amy Blevins 

    Department Chair
    BM - Oakland University
  • Abbie Bailey 

    BFA - Western Michigan University
  • Kelly Davis 

    BA - Wayne State University
    MA - University of Southern California
  • Daniel Mahoney 

    BA - Madonna University

Marian High School

7225 Lahser Road Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301
PHONE: 248-644-1750 - Marian High School
Marian High School, an IHM sponsored school, is fully accredited by NCA CASI, an accrediting division of AdvancED.

Marian is a Catholic college preparatory school for young women, sponsored by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

The mission of Marian is to ensure, within a Christian environment, an excellent education built on a strong academic curriculum, which will enable young women to value human diversity and live responsible lives of leadership and action based on gospel values.

An enduring tradition: guiding young women spiritually, challenging them academically, and inspiring them to a life of leadership and service.