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The Fine Arts faculty believes that every student is unique. Here there is no competition. Everyone likes different colors, lines, forms, images, sounds, music. The importance is for the students to have confidence in their own beliefs and to be able to express them. The knowledge of art and music is important because one day the student might be in a position to affect the art and music of the future. Art and music also give us an alternative mechanism for self-expression. Artistic and musical talents need nurturing and the courses offered are an attempt to help with the development of the whole person by emphasizing art and music appreciation, as well as student artistic and musical expression.

COURSE OFFERINGS

Art History - 12th year, Elective
This course takes the student through a chronological overview of the development of art and considers the impact of political, religious, social, and scientific influences on artistic trends. Through analyzing the structural components of art, the student learns to interpret major works in painting, sculpture, and architecture while reinforcing his or her knowledge with periodic studio experiences. The periods of art studied include: Ancient Egypt, Classical Greece and Rome, Early Christian, and the Renaissance.

19th & 20th Century Art History - 12th year, Elective
This course offers an in-depth study of the development of artistic trends and their external influences from French Impressionism to American Art in the 1990's. Frequent visits to the major metropolitan museums supplement and enhance the student's knowledge of major artists, their techniques and media, progression of style, and significant works. The course of study includes: Expressionism, Fauvism, Cubism, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, and Modern Sculpture and Architecture.

Art Studio - 12th year, Elective
Extensive study of the use of line, form, color, and texture is the foundation of this course as students learn the artistic process of progressing from a sketch to a finished work of art. A variety of media is used in exploring the fundamentals of linear perspective, portraiture, figure/anatomy, landscape, and still life rendering in both traditional and modern techniques.

Photography - 12th year, Semester Elective
In this course, students will examine a summary history of photography and its progression through different arenas (i.e. portraiture, journalism, film art). The students will explore issues of light, shadow, and composition. The class will also explore the concept of the “gaze,” the idea of the known or unknown watcher, and the differences in the presentation of the subject resultant from this variable position the photographer can assume.
The Class will delve into exploration of color, digital photography, image printing, and the software program, Photoshop. Students may also have the opportunity to explore the processing of black and white photography.

Film Study - 12th year, Semester Elective
Classic and modern films are viewed both inside and outside the classroom as students learn to evaluate film as an art form. Cinematic vocabulary, interpretation and effects of lighting, camera angles, color, set design, and characterization are emphasized through the discussion of major works, directors, and actors. In addition, students determine by comparative analysis the extent to which film has been affected by society and technology. The grammar and syntax of film are analyzed to determine its effectiveness in conveying theme and characterization. Major works considered include films directed by Sergi Eisenstein, John Ford, Charlie Chaplin, and Alfred Hitchcock.

Music History / Theory - 9th year (½ Credit)
With the first semester devoted to the basics of music theory and ear training, Loyola students are given an immediate understanding of music science which sensitizes each student to the mathematical relationships between musical notes and within harmony, alongside an overview of musical form and composition. Through music vocabulary and theoretical exercises, students are introduced to academic musical practices in preparation of college-level music courses. During the second semester, students work on applied music theory through a detailed study of each historical period (Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern) in order to grasp and then differentiate between various composers, musical forms and styles.

Music Theory – 12th year, Elective (½ credit)
The fundamental aspects of music theory are covered in practice, beginning with basic notation and intervals, scales and elementary harmony. Followed by an introduction to ear training and sight-reading, Loyola students are encouraged to work on harmonic exercises and then write short original compositions. Although it is not necessary, it is recommended that students have some prior musical experience and/or training – whether instrumental, vocal, and/or theoretical.

AP Music Theory – 12th year, Elective
Prerequisite: Music Theory or Department Approval. Along with a review of basic harmonic principles and practices, AP Music Theory allows advanced work in ear training, harmonic analysis and four-part writing, as well as contrapuntal composition. Students will be expected to take the AP Music Theory Exam at the end of the year.

Music Orchestra - Elective (¼ credit)
With membership opportunities in two ensembles, the Loyola Orchestra and the Loyola Chamber Ensemble, students rehearse up to several times a week (with additional rehearsals prior to performances) and perform numerous works of the classical and film repertoire, including works of Bach, Vivaldi, Mozart, Mahler, and Williams. Performances in concerts and masses are held in Wallace Hall and the Church of St. Ignatius Loyola. In agreement with the Loyola School calendar, music tours are considered each year based on the level and size of music ensembles.

Music Chorus - Elective (¼ credit)
Either as a member of the Loyola Chorus or Loyola Chamber Singers, students rehearse up to several times a week (with additional rehearsals prior to performances) and perform numerous works of the classical, broadway, film, and song repertoire, including works of Bach, Handel, Mozart, Gounod, and Gershwin. Ear training and vocal technique complement an active performance schedule for concerts and masses in Wallace Hall and the Church of St. Ignatius Loyola. In agreement with the Loyola School calendar, music tours are considered each year based on the level and size of music ensembles.

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