* Indicates that the course builds towards a Global Studies and Service diploma
No prior music training is necessary for this course. Students will learn basic principles of music theory and apply them toward original works using the midi studio. Evaluation will be based on quizzes, aural exams, efficient demonstration of technology in the lab, and several compositions, including a final three-minute project.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This beginner-level course is designed for those who would like to learn how to play the piano. Music reading, counting, hand position, and rudimentary technical skills are stressed through the mastery of beginning piano repertoire. There are written quizzes and tests as well as playing quizzes.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This beginner-level course is designed for those who would like to learn how to play the piano. Music reading, counting, hand position, and rudimentary technical skills are stressed through the mastery of beginning piano repertoire. There are written quizzes and tests as well as playing quizzes.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
No prior music training is necessary for this course. Students will learn basic principles of music theory and apply them toward original works using the midi studio. Evaluation will be based on quizzes, aural exams, efficient demonstration of technology in the lab, and several compositions, including a final three-minute project.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Dance For Everyone is the study of dance at the introductory level. Students will learn the basics of dance while gaining body awareness, strength, flexibility, coordination, and musicality. Various dance techniques will be investigated and artistic expression and individual style will be encouraged. Students will learn to pick up, retain and execute movement quickly, presenting movement quizzes at the end of each unit. The class will culminate in an end-of-semester showcase where students will perform in a group dance, gaining experience in public performance and a greater appreciation for the art form.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
**Not Offered for the 2026-27 Academic Year**
No prior music training is necessary for this course. Musicianship for Beginners develops all the necessary skill sets to be a performer at a fundamental or basic level. Students will study, learn, and perform rhythm, melody, and harmony through hand drumming, singing, and playing guitar. Repertoire will consist of simple music spanning a wide range of history, background, and culture. The course will culminate with a public performance at the end of the semester.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
World Dance Appreciation is the exploration of world culture through dance. Through video viewing, academic research, and physical practice of dance from around the world, students will gain an appreciation for the traditional and contemporary forms of various cultures and draw parallels between them. Students will demonstrate their learning through researched presentations and movement quizzes of the forms and will gain an understanding of what makes dance a universal expression in our world.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
**Not Offered for the 2026-27 Academic Year**
Designed to follow the Musicianship for Beginners course, students will continue to study and perform suitable music from a wide range of styles, and compose and perform original music derived from the concepts studied. In addition, students will examine the cultural practices behind the music performed. The course will involve two public performances.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: AM515
This course serves the advanced performers on any classical instrument by providing a supervised study of their instrument in ensemble playing. Students are expected to practice daily on their own and to travel outside the school to play for various audiences. The course is graded on the basis of student performance of the pieces studied and may be taken more than once.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This beginner-level course teaches students how to sing through a combination of semi-private voice lessons, small group singing, and ensemble performances. The course will integrate the basics of music theory and the fundamentals of proper singing technique, and assessments will be in the form of vocal quizzes. At the discretion of the conductor, students will be invited to join Collegium Musicum in several performances.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This beginner-level course teaches students how to sing through a combination of semi-private voice lessons, small group singing, and ensemble performances. The course will integrate the basics of music theory and the fundamentals of proper singing technique, and assessments will be in the form of vocal quizzes. At the discretion of the conductor, students will be invited to join Collegium Musicum in several performances.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
The emphasis in this workshop is on interpreting music in the large jazz ensemble and increasing each student's personal skill in instrumental music, leading to several concerts presented both in and out of school. Commitment to excellence is expected. Students are required to practice daily on their own. The course is graded and may be taken more than once.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Taft's showcase choir rehearses at an advanced level in vocal and choral musicianship and is designed for the student singer who is interested in performing classical masterworks. Emphasis is on personal, musical, and intellectual responsibility. Critical thinking is stressed; students learn to draw technical and stylistic inferences from the music studied in class. Evaluation is based on both performance and preparation. The group performs often, both at school and away, and in recent years has gone on concert tours to Italy, England, Spain, France, China, and San Francisco. These tours, although not required, are an important part of being a member of Collegium and are a chance for the choristers to live the school motto, in that members actively give their singular and collective talents back to the community (and the global community). It is strongly suggested that members take advantage of these extraordinary opportunities.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Although designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Examination in Music Theory, this course may be taken by any student who wishes to have good preparation in the fundamentals of using and manipulating musical notation. Beginning at an elementary level, the course soon has the student composing simple melodies, analyzing songs, and writing four-part chord progressions. Much time is spent on ear training, learning to recognize by ear melodies and harmonies and to write them correctly. The student is expected to spend time at the computer drilling himself or herself on the fundamentals of music.
Note: Available to grades 10-12.
Prerequisites: AM518
Intermediate Dance, the foundational course for intensive dance training, is designed for lower mids and mids with or without prior experience and an eagerness to learn and progress in their dance technique. While students will primarily train in ballet and modern dance, they will also be exposed to styles such as jazz, hip-hop, and African dance and learn the basics of composition and choreography. The course culminates in an end-of-semester showcase where students will present collaboratively choreographed pieces. Through consistent technique and composition lessons, teacher feedback, and enriching classes with guest teachers, students will grow as dancers and gain a great understanding of the art form.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Advanced Dance, the second course for intensive dance training, is open to Upper Mids and Seniors who have previously completed one or two years in the Intermediate Dance course. While students will continue their advanced training in ballet and modern dance, they will also be exposed to styles such as jazz, hip hop, and African dance and continue building skill and collaboration in composition and choreography. The course culminates in an end-of-semester showcase where students will be challenged to create larger, independent works of choreography, and Senior students will perform additional solo works set by guest choreographers. Through consistent technique and composition lessons, peer and teacher feedback, and enriching classes with guest teachers, students will grow as dancers and artists and gain a deeper understanding of the art form.
Note: Available to grades 10-12.
Prerequisites: AM580
This course focuses on the study and application of basic theater vocabulary, as well as on developing skills in observation, improvisation, process, and performance. Theater games lead into character and scene work. Evaluation is based on daily exercises, individual and group projects, scene writing, and scene study. Students interested in advanced work are urged to take this course.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course focuses on the study and application of basic theater vocabulary, as well as on developing skills in observation, improvisation, process, and performance. Theater games lead into character and scene work. Evaluation is based on daily exercises, individual and group projects, scene writing, and scene study. Students interested in advanced work are urged to take this course.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Students will learn to craft and deliver both impromptu and prepared speeches in this public speaking class. Because students are encouraged to find topics that interest them, each student quickly develops the skills and confidence needed to be comfortable at the podium. They also develop skills as active listeners in order to evaluate the speeches of their peers as well as those of public figures. This course is beneficial for both skilled speakers and those students interested in improving their confidence and oral communication skills.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Students will learn to craft and deliver both impromptu and prepared speeches in this public speaking class. Because students are encouraged to find topics that interest them, each student quickly develops the skills and confidence needed to be comfortable at the podium. Students also develop skills as active listeners in order to evaluate the speeches of their peers as well as those of public figures. This course is beneficial for both skilled speakers and those students interested in improving their confidence and oral communication skills.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Designed to follow the Acting course, Intermediate students will continue to engage in various improvisational exercises and scene work to explore the challenge of creating believable characters and circumstances on stage. In the second half of the term, we will focus on one short play, either a comedy or a drama, working towards an ensemble performance of the play at the end of the spring. Evaluation will be based on daily class work, partnered projects, individual investment, and growth.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: AT501
This course introduces the student to the foundation skills for the realization of stage scenery, costumes, lighting, sound, and properties. The student will learn fundamental construction methods, stage electrics, and theater-specific computer programs. Hands-on projects will be assigned to practice safe and effective technical theater techniques.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course introduces the student to theater technology and stage design, by exploring the question: How is a theatrical production created? From conception to opening night, the student investigates the roles of the producer, director, designers, actors, stage managers, and theater technicians. Special attention is given to the four design fields of the modern theater: sets, costumes, lights, and sound. Projects will include model-making, costume rendering, drafting, and computer-controlled light and sound effects.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
In this introductory-level course, students will gain knowledge of the history of printmaking as they study significant artists and artworks. Students will learn the technical and creative process involved in planning and making prints using a printing press, through a variety of methods. Safe and proper use of tools and equipment will be taught. Printmaking techniques covered in this course can include linocut, woodcut, dry point, collagraph, and white line prints. All materials used in the studio are non-toxic. In addition to printmaking projects, students will engage in class critiques and keep a sketchbook.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
In this introductory-level course, students will gain knowledge of the history of printmaking as they study significant artists and artworks. Students will learn the technical and creative process involved in planning and making prints using a printing press, through a variety of methods. Safe and proper use of tools and equipment will be taught. Printmaking techniques covered in this course can include linocut, woodcut, dry point, collagraph, and white line prints. All materials used in the studio are non-toxic. In addition to printmaking projects, students will engage in class critiques and keep a sketchbook.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Introduction to film fundamentals and the art of visual storytelling. Students will be immersed in the films from some of American cinema’s best filmmakers. By viewing and analyzing different genres, filmmaking techniques, and styles, students will learn how to “read” a film. They will be introduced to such concepts as: mise-en-scene, montage, color, sound, editing, cinematic structure, and more. In addition, students will be introduced to basic filmmaking tools: composition, shot types, camera angles, and editing. As the semester progresses students will complete a series of “shoot-to-edit” projects, which become their building blocks for understanding visual storytelling.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Introduction to film fundamentals and the art of visual storytelling. Students will be immersed in the films from some of American cinema’s best filmmakers. By viewing and analyzing different genres, filmmaking techniques, and styles, students will learn how to “read” a film. They will be introduced to such concepts as: mise-en-scene, montage, color, sound, editing, cinematic structure, and more. In addition, students will be introduced to basic filmmaking tools: composition, shot types, camera angles, and editing. As the semester progresses students will complete a series of “shoot-to-edit” projects, which become their building blocks for understanding visual storytelling.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course prepares you to examine and understand the world around you through the classic, hands-on process of film and darkroom photography. We'll explore core photographic concepts, from metering and exposure to composition and light, all through the lens of a film camera. The course will include hands-on demonstrations with both the camera and in the darkroom. You will learn to develop your own film and make your own black-and-white prints, gaining a tangible connection to the entire image-making process. We'll also study the work of master photographers alongside your own images to better understand the fundamentals of composition and create truly compelling, handcrafted prints.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course introduces students to creating ceramic forms using the potter’s wheel. Several techniques will be demonstrated as a foundation for using the wheel as a tool for creating forms. The process of designing and the function, decoration, and presentation of the thrown forms will serve as your course assignments. In addition to using the potter’s wheel, students will learn about a number of different finishing surfaces that can be applied to ceramics after it has been glazed.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course introduces students to creating ceramic forms using the potter’s wheel. Several techniques will be demonstrated as a foundation for using the wheel as a tool for creating forms. The process of designing and the function, decoration, and presentation of the thrown forms will serve as your course assignments. In addition to using the potter’s wheel, students will learn about a number of different finishing surfaces that can be applied to ceramics after it has been glazed.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course invites students to explore the world through photography. Focusing on both foundational concepts and advanced techniques, students will gain hands-on experience with camera operation and digital image editing. By studying the work of master photographers and discussing their own images, students will develop a strong understanding of composition and visual storytelling to create impactful photographs.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course prepares you to examine and understand the world around you through the classic, hands-on process of film and darkroom photography. We'll explore core photographic concepts, from metering and exposure to composition and light, all through the lens of a film camera. The course will include hands-on demonstrations with both the camera and in the darkroom. You will learn to develop your own film and make your own black-and-white prints, gaining a tangible connection to the entire image-making process. We'll also study the work of master photographers alongside your own images to better understand the fundamentals of composition and create truly compelling, handcrafted prints.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course invites students to explore the world through photography. Focusing on both foundational concepts and advanced techniques, students will gain hands-on experience with camera operation and digital image editing. By studying the work of master photographers and discussing their own images, students will develop a strong understanding of composition and visual storytelling to create impactful photographs.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Students who have been successful in Intro to Ceramics will be invited to continue to work in clay and will learn to use the potter’s wheel. Developing control of the creation of the form on the wheel will be emphasized with cylinders, bowls, and cups. They will also continue to develop their hand-building skills with an emphasis on craftsmanship and inventiveness. Advanced Projects could include composite forms, jars, teapots, plates, and altered forms. Students can take this course multiple times.
Note: Available to grades 10-12.
Prerequisites: AV215
As a continuation of Intro to Film, this class will take a deeper dive into the art of filmmaking and the production process. Students will further their knowledge by experiencing the following aspects of digital film production: Scriptwriting, storyboarding, and shot lists, Advanced audio recording and voice-over, Lighting techniques, Shot types and shot angles, Cameras, and lenses, Professional editing software–Adobe Premiere Pro/After Effects, Shooting 4k video, Basic color correction. Students learn how to express their own creative vision and experience the unique collaborative nature of filmmaking by working together to create original videos including but not limited to short narrative films, documentaries, music videos, promos, and commercials.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: AV107
In the Wheel Throwing class, students will focus on refining their control in crafting cylinders, bowls, cups, jars, and plates on the potter's wheel. Emphasis will also be placed on delving into surface design techniques such as carving, sgraffito, slip-trailing, and glaze application to create contemporary designs. Additionally, students will enhance their hand-building skills, emphasizing craftsmanship and inventiveness, providing a comprehensive approach to working with clay. This course aims to deepen students' proficiency in wheel throwing, surface design, and hand-building, nurturing their artistic growth and creativity in the realm of ceramic artistry.
Note: Available to grades 10-12.
Prerequisites: AV113
In the Wheel Throwing class, students will focus on refining their control in crafting cylinders, bowls, cups, jars, and plates on the potter's wheel. Emphasis will also be placed on delving into surface design techniques such as carving, sgraffito, slip-trailing, and glaze application to create contemporary designs. Additionally, students will enhance their hand-building skills, emphasizing craftsmanship and inventiveness, providing a comprehensive approach to working with clay. This course aims to deepen students' proficiency in wheel throwing, surface design, and hand-building, nurturing their artistic growth and creativity in the realm of ceramic artistry.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: AV113
Advanced Film: Directing, Theory, and Practice is a yearlong course in which students form an on-campus production company and work collaboratively to create high-quality documentary and narrative short films. This class is designed to allow students to hone their technique and let their filmmaking skills shine. Whether their goal is to work on projects geared toward film festival competitions or to build their individual reels for college applications, students lead in every step of the process. Semester 1 – Students focus on producing documentary projects both on campus and out in the greater community. Semester 2 – Students work individually and collaboratively to conceptualize, pitch, write, shoot, and edit narrative short film projects.
Note: Available to grades 10-12.
Prerequisites: AV208
**Not Offered for the 2026-27 Academic Year**
Advanced Film: Cinematic Design and Technique is a yearlong course in which students form an on-campus production company and work individually and collaboratively to create a number of high-quality documentary and narrative short films. This class is designed to give students the opportunity to find their unique filmmaking voice and home their craft. Instruction will be supplemented by viewings of films and scholarly articles that explore the nuances of the art of filmmaking with an emphasis on the specific visual storytelling styles of a range of well-established directors. Whether their goal is to work on projects geared toward film festival competitions or to build their individual reels for college applications, students lead the process.
Note: Available to grades 10-12.
Prerequisites: AV208
This course builds on the skills developed in Darkroom and Digital Photography, focusing on advanced camera techniques, creative concept development, and the refinement of personal style. Students will experiment with lighting, composition, and advanced post-processing while learning how to plan, shoot, and refine a cohesive body of work. Emphasis is placed on visual storytelling, critical analysis, and the use of photography as a tool for artistic expression. Through project-based assignments, critiques, and the study of influential photographers, students will deepen their technical mastery and conceptual approach to image-making.
Note: Available to grades 10-12.
Prerequisites: AV116 and AV118
Students of all levels will have the opportunity to learn creative expression while learning fundamental skills and techniques. They will gain confidence in expressing ideas visually and develop an awareness of how artists work. Students will learn about a variety of artists who have created art in nature and /or who have created art inspired by nature in a studio setting. Coursework can include making natural pigments, observational drawing of natural objects, making paper, prints, and nature journaling.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Drawing and Design teaches foundation skills in drawing: the properties of light on volume, drawing from life and imagination, and one- and two-point perspective. Also taught are basic color theory, and design and composition. Slide lectures are given on examining and interpreting works of art, and students practice those skills. Materials used are charcoal, pencil, watercolor, ink, collage, colored inks, colored pencils, oil pastel, and scratchboard.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Drawing and Design teaches foundation skills in drawing: the properties of light on volume, drawing from life and imagination, and one- and two-point perspective. Also taught are basic color theory, and design and composition. Slide lectures are given on examining and interpreting works of art, and students practice those skills. Materials used are charcoal, pencil, watercolor, ink, collage, colored inks, colored pencils, oil pastel, and scratchboard.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
Intermediate Drawing and Painting is designed for students who have completed an introductory course in the visual arts. Drawing skills are refined through increasingly complex assignments, and painting techniques are taught in acrylics, watercolor, oil pastels, soft pastels, and monotypes. Lessons focus on the manipulation of light, composition, and color for personal expression. Assignments in landscape, still life, and portraiture are included. Students are expected to participate in classes aggressively, to be able to articulate their intentions in any given work and to critique their own and others’ work sensitively and knowledgeably.
Note: Available to grades 10-12.
Prerequisites: AV501
Advanced assignments in drawing and painting require students to be especially sensitive to the abstract qualities of form and content of their work and others and to be eloquent in class discussions and critiques. In the second term, each student designs and executes a body of work showing his/her commitment in-depth to a particular artistic concern. Students who exhibit special interest and talent in a specific medium or in a particular area of study will be given personalized assignments to enable them to pursue that interest. Areas of study include portrait and figure painting, automatic drawing and abstract expressionism, mixed media and installation, illustration, cartooning, and an introduction to sculpture.
Note: Available to grades 11-12.
Prerequisites: AV520
This honors-level survey of Western Art takes us from caves to cats: from primitive paleolithic paintings to contemporary exhibitions at MoMA, from the civilizations of the ancient Mediterranean to present-day art-as-activism. Students will learn to analyze art from a variety of critical lenses--cultural, anthropological, political--and will regularly present independent research in classroom colloquia and in situ at museums. Students should be aware that this course is reading- and writing-heavy; students are expected to read primary and secondary readings and incorporate resources alongside their own analyses in critical papers.
Note: Available to grades 11-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course is designed for juniors and seniors who wish to create a portfolio. Students are given assignments that require considerable expenditure of time in their development. Assignments stress versatility with a wide range of media in several areas of study. In addition, each student chooses a "concentration" project, during which a theme is developed in 20 to 30 works that year.
Note: Available to grades 11-12.
Prerequisites: AV540
**Not Offered for the 2026-27 Academic Year**
This course introduces students to the concepts and techniques of sculptural design. Students work in a variety of materials including, but not limited to, paper, plaster, wire, wood, clay, metal, and glass. Work is completed from observational points of departure as well as non-objective design. Both additive and reductive processes are explored.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.
This course introduces students to the concepts and techniques of sculptural design. Students work in a variety of materials including, but not limited to, paper, plaster, wire, wood, clay, metal, and glass. Work is completed from observational points of departure as well as non-objective design. Both additive and reductive processes are explored.
Note: Available to grades 9-12.
Prerequisites: None.