The Arts at Mater Dei High School

Course Length: Year
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Participation in Marching Band/Pep Band and Winter Percussion Ensemble is required. Fees Apply.

*ALL LEVEL PERCUSSIONISTS must sign-up for this class. Advanced students receive Honors Credit.

The class focuses on developing music reading, music theory and performance, skills and technique. The class is a 4 year program in which students learn to perform on several types of percussion instruments and specialize in one or several.

Percussion Instruments Include: Drumline Instruments (snare, quads, basses and cymbals), Mallet instruments (marimba, xylophone, vibraphone, bells), Keyboards (piano), Drums Set, Guitar and Latin Percussion (congas, bongos), Hand Percussion Instruments (triangle, cymbals, cow bell, wind-chimes).

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Participation in Marching Band/Pep Band is expected. Fees Apply.

Open to students with no previous instrumental music experience on band instruments. The class focuses on learning to read music notation, understanding fundamental music theory and performance on a band instrument.  Most instruments are available with a yearly maintenance fee. Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone, French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone,Tuba.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Participation in Marching Band/Pep Band is expected. Fees Apply.

Symphonic Band is open to students with at least 1 year of experience on a wind band instrument. The class focuses on further developing music reading, music theory, and performance skills and technique. Students represent Mater Dei at local and national music festivals and concerts. After school rehearsals and Performances included. If needed, most instruments are available with a yearly maintenance fee. Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone, French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba.

Course Length: Year
Grade Level: 9-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Audition. Participation in Marching Band/Pep Band is required. Fees Apply.

Honors Wind Ensemble is open to students with a solid foundation on a wind band instrument and music theory fundamentals. Students are placed by director or by audition. The class focuses on further developing music reading, music theory, and performance skills and technique. After school Rehearsals and Performances are mandatory.  Students represent Mater Dei at local and national music festivals and concerts. Most instruments are available with a yearly maintenance fee. Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Bassoon, Saxophone, French Horn, Trumpet, Euphonium, Trombone, Tuba.

Course Length: Semester 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: None
Prerequisites: Students should be co-enrolled in an instrumental music course (Beginning Band, Symphonic Band, or Honors Wind Ensemble). Fees Apply.

Open to all students. This competitive group performs at home football games and at local and regional competitions and festivals.  Summer Camp, afterschool rehearsals and performances are mandatory. No previous marching or musical experience is necessary.  Fall Semester Course. 

This course is not UC and CSU approved.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 10-12
A-G Designation: None
Prerequisites: Approval of the teacher

Students assist the Theatre Director.  Duties include but are not limited to organizing the Little Theatre, assisting with mailings, basic data input, and inventory. Upon on occasion the assistant may also take on creative leadership over class based production elements.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Participation in Marching Band/Pep Band is required. Fees Apply.

No previous Jazz experience is required, but the student should be proficient in playing their instrument and music theory fundamentals. The class focuses on further developing music reading, music theory, and performance skills and techniques in various jazz eras and styles. Afterschool Rehearsals and Performances are mandatory.  Students represent Mater Dei at local and national music festivals as well as MD and community events. 

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Open to all students. Fees Apply.

This class is open to students with no  experience in Orchestra: Violin, Viola, Cello and Contrabass. The class focuses on the development of music theory, orchestral repertoire and performance practices. Students will develop their ensemble and individual skills and techniques specific to their instruments. They will also participate in fall, winter, and spring concerts along with music festival opportunities that enrich and enhance their overall musical experience. Most instruments are available with a yearly maintenance fee.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: By audition or approval of director. Fees Apply

This class is open to students with at least one year experience in Orchestra: Violin, Viola, Cello and Contrabass. The class focuses on continuing the development of music theory, and orchestral repertoire and performance practices. Students will strengthen and further develop their ensemble and individual skills and techniques specific to their instruments. They will also participate in fall, winter, and spring concerts along with music festival opportunities that enrich and enhance their overall musical experience. Most instruments are available with a yearly maintenance fee.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: UC Approval Pending for “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: By audition or approval of director. Fees Apply

This class is open to students who are proficient in their Orchestral instrument: Violin, Viola, Cello and Contrabass. The class focuses on continuing the development of music theory, and orchestral repertoire and performance practices. Students will strengthen and further develop their ensemble and individual skills and techniques specific to their instruments. They will also participate in fall, winter, and spring concerts along with music festival opportunities that enrich and enhance their overall musical experience. Most instruments are available with a yearly maintenance fee.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Open to all students. Fees Apply.

Intro to Piano is designed for the student with no previous piano or musical experience, as well as for the experienced music student who wishes to learn piano for the purpose of music theory, understanding and application. Through a combination of classroom lessons, online resources, and individual practice, students will learn the fundamentals of music theory and artistic expression through studying, learning, and performing progressive piano music and exercises that present and develop all aspects of music knowledge, comprehension, and performance.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Students must have their own Guitar. Fees Apply.

This class is open to all students with no previous experience required. The course includes music fundamentals, theory, songs, performances, listening, improvising, and learning to read standard music notation as well as tablature. Students will learn open chords, power chords, movable chords, single note (melody) playing, accompaniment techniques, and a variety of playing techniques and styles, including both pick-style and finger-style approaches to the guitar.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: By audition or approval of director. Students must have their own Guitar. Fees Apply.

This is an elective course for Intermediate guitarists with at least 1 or more years of experience on the instrument. Students will continue to learn open chords, power chords, movable chords, single note (melody) playing, accompaniment techniques, and a variety of playing techniques and styles, including both pick-style and fingerstyle approaches to the guitar. The course also includes music fundamentals, theory, songs, performances, listening, improvising, and learning to read standard music notation as well as tablature. In addition, students will be encouraged to attend performances as soloists, small groups, and collaborate with the advanced level classes on a regular basis.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: By audition or approval of director. Students must have their own Guitar. Fees Apply.

This course is designed to assist students in the advanced concepts of guitar playing while applying those skills to multi media/performance aspects of the music business.  Students will be given direction related to the guitar and learn many different styles of playing from around the world.  Special attention will be given to note reading, aural skills, rhythmic patterns, chord study, finger-picking, melody construction, musical forms and performance experience organization of instrumental equipment and uniforms, and basic office work. This is not a UC or CSU approved course.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: None

In this introductory course, students will develop the skills necessary to operate as creative, mindful, responsible artists that can appreciate the diversity of theatrical performances and the role of theatre in society while gaining knowledge of a wide range of theatrical disciplines and experiences. Students will explore performance technique through ensemble-based warm-ups and exercises, an overview of theatre practitioners, theorists, and historical context, and develop an understanding for effective aesthetic valuing and critiquing from the perspectives of both performer and audience member. By the completion of the course, students will demonstrate working vocabulary of knowledge of theatre and its development, be able to identify and examine theatrical components in production, analyze and critique performances, and appreciate viewing theatre as an art form.

Students must purchase class materials and textbook; this course requires attendance and critiques of selected theatrical productions.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 10-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Theatre Arts I grade “C” or above, or equivalent training and experience, and teacher approval.

Theatre II is a one-year course intended for Sophomore, Junior and Senior students who have completed a year of Theatre I, or who have previous experience and meet criteria set forth by Theatre Department Director. This class builds upon concepts taught in Theatre I, with primary focus on acting techniques. Students will explore all aspects of scene work, while also discovering and conveying a character’s intent and objective. The course will include study of play analysis/design, monologue work, and One Act Play rehearsal and performance.  Each of these units will both strengthen students as actors, and introduce concepts of directing and design which will be broadened in more advanced courses within the department.

Required events that may extend past the class time:
One Act Plays

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 10-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Theatre I grade “C” or above, or equivalent training and experience, and teacher approval.

Theatre III is a one-year course intended for Sophomore, Junior and Senior students who have completed a year of Theatre I. This class builds upon concepts taught in previous courses and approaches the study of theatre through production aspects: student-operated theatre company, management, design, technical, and more. This course provides hands-on learning opportunities through both in-class practical application and participation in the technical crews of Theatre productions. Students will complete a portfolio project to showcase their work. Participation in technical crew is a requirement of this course. There is a $50 lab fee.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 10-12
A-G Designation:  “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Theatre I grade “C” or above, Theatre III grade "B" or above, or equivalent training and experience, and teacher approval.

Honors Theatre III is a one-year course intended for Sophomore, Junior and Senior students who have completed a year of Theatre III. This class builds upon concepts taught in previous courses and continues the study of theatre through production aspects: student-operated theatre company, management, design, technical, and more. This course provides hands-on learning opportunities through both in-class practical application and participation in the technical crews of Theatre productions. Students will complete a portfolio project to showcase their work. Participation in production crews and theatre festivals is a requirement of this course. There is a $50 lab fee for this course.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 11-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: C or above in Theatre II or Honors Musical Theatre, teacher approval, and active participation in Thespian Troupe/Theatre Arts Club.

This honors level course is approved by UC/CSU and fulfills the requirements and benchmarks of the National Core Arts Standards for Theatre. This course is a deeper, more rigorous exploration of Theatre, building on previous prerequisite courses. Students will synthesize knowledge from a variety of dramatic forms, theatrical conventions, and technologies to create theatre. Students will collaborate as a creative team to discover artistic solutions and make interpretive choices in a devised or scripted theatre work, and use the rehearsal process to invent or re-imagine style, genre, form, and conventions, support, explain, and analyze aesthetics, preferences, beliefs, and production elements that inform theatre work. Participation in Theatre productions is a requirement of this course. 

Required events that may extend past the class time:

• Theatre in the Grotto
• Christmas at the Corner
• Children’s Theatre Tour
• Directing Showcase
• Participation in CETA festival

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: C or above in Honors Theatre IV, teacher approval, and active participation in Thespian Troupe/Theatre Arts Club.

Honors Theatre V allows students to deepen the width and breadth of learning acquired in Theatre I, II, and Honors Theatre IV and apply it to preparing for college and professional theatre. They will continue to develop their creative voice within their respective craft in order to contribute to the industry and community at large. Students will be supplied with the framework to think critically about artistic interpretation. Students engage in all production aspects culminating in a production or performance, with an emphasis on directing. Students will produce an extensive body of work focused on various genres, styles, theories, and techniques. Students will become familiarized with current theatrical trends and issues, critically assess their own work, create and sustain an audition repertoire appropriate to their age and type, and collaborate with peers on various projects and productions. Students will serve in leadership positions on mainstage productions, and have opportunities to direct scene work and One Act Plays. Participation in Theatre productions is a requirement of this course.

Required events that may extend past the class time:

Children’s Theatre Partnerships
Holidayfest
Directing Showcase
One Act Plays

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 10-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Theatre Arts II/III with a “C” or above, or equivalent training and experience, and teacher approval.

Honors Musical Theatre is a one-year advanced-level academic elective course open to students having taken the appropriate prerequisite. Students will build appropriate audition techniques through both strengthening and properly using the voice, and conveying story and character through each piece. Students will learn how to appropriately select audition material and will be working within several musical theatre genres. Students will study the evolution of the musical from operetta to contemporary works, and will have the opportunity to work on material from each genre. Second semester will feature crafting and performing musical scenes from both traditional and contemporary works, as well as large-scale musical numbers. The second semester will build upon the elements of musical storytelling learned in the first semester, and will not only focus on vocal skills, but physical acting and choreography. Students must purchase class materials as required. There is a $150 lab fee.

Required events that may extend past the class time:
Theatre in the Grotto

• Christmas at the Corner
• Children’s Theatre Tour
• Directing Showcase
• Participation in CETA festival

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 11-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Theatre Arts II/III/Honors Musical Theatre with a “C” or above, or equivalent training and experience, and teacher approval.

Honors Musical Theatre II is a one-year advanced-level academic elective course open to students having taken the appropriate prerequisite. Building upon the techniques gained in Honors Musical Theatre, students will refine audition techniques for musical theatre performance. Students will collaborate to choreograph and stage musical theatre pieces and will work towards the staging of a musical theatre performance. Students will continue to build upon the elements of musical storytelling learned and will not only focus on vocal skills, but physical acting and choreography. Students must purchase class materials as required. There is a $150 lab fee.

Required events that may extend past the class time:
Musical Theatre Showcases & Events

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 11-12
A-G Designation: Pending
Prerequisites: Honors Musical Theatre II with a “C” or above, or equivalent training and experience, and teacher approval/audition. Fees Apply

Honors Musical Theatre III is a one-year advanced-level academic elective course open to students having taken the appropriate prerequisite. Building upon the techniques gained in Honors Musical Theatre II, students will select and build their audition techniques to create a marketable musical theatre performance reel. Students will also build an audition portfolio spanning all genres of musical theatre. Students will collaborate to choreograph and stage musical theatre pieces, as well as build the necessary skills to direct, choreograph, and stage a small-scale musical. Students will continue to build upon the elements of musical storytelling learned and will not only focus on vocal skills, but physical acting and choreography. Students must purchase class materials as required.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: None

This course offers the beginning dance student practical experience in foundations of dance. Emphasis will be on the development of coordination, flexibility, proper body awareness, alignment technique and fundamental vocabulary terms. Dance I will explore a variety of disciplines including: Jazz, Musical Theatre, Contemporary, Lyrical, Ballet, Hip Hop and Choreography. Class will consist of dance warm-up exercises, conditioning, across the floor combinations, center combinations and will end with a cool down. The students will learn short, genre specific dance combinations at the end of each unit to improve technical and performance skills. Students will be introduced to production methods in preparation for their culminating performances in Christmas at the Corner and the Spring Dance Concert. Participation in both performances is required.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Completion of Dance I or instructor’s approval.

This course offers students extended experience and practice in the areas of flexibility, strength, body alignment, and performance, while continuing to develop intermediate technical skills. Fundamental vocabulary will be expanded upon. Dance II will delve deeper into multiple disciplines including: Jazz, Musical Theater, Contemporary, Lyrical Ballet, Hip Hop and Choreography. Class will consist of dance warm-up exercises, conditioning, across the floor combinations, center combinations and will end with a cool down. The students will learn a genre specific combination consisting of higher level technical skills and more complex patterns performed at an intermediate level of proficiency. Students will expand their knowledge and understanding of production methods, musicality and performance in preparation for culminating performances in Christmas at the Corner and the Spring Dance Concert. Participation in both performances is required.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Completion of Dance II or instructor’s approval.

This course provides continued technical training at an intermediate/advanced level with a focus on Contemporary and Jazz. Curriculum will challenge students to increase proficiency of technical skills through continued strength, flexibility and agility training. In addition to dance vocabulary, students will also learn kinesiological terminology. Class will consist of dance warm-up exercises, conditioning, across the floor combinations, center combinations and will end with a cool down. Elements of dance history, terminology, critical analysis, self-assessment and performance will be covered. The students will learn short segments of choreography over the course of the year designed to further develop their understanding of connection to audience and self through movement. Students will explore and expand their knowledge of movement expression in preparation for culminating performances in Christmas at the Corner and the Spring Dance Concert. Participation in both performances is required.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Audition in Spring, minimum 2.0 GPA, and approval of Instructor.

Honors Dance Company students will be held to advanced level standards in the training and study of jazz, ballet, hip hop, musical theatre, contemporary, improvisation, and dance composition. Focus will be on developing versatile dance artists who study anatomy, kinesiology, movement and fitness principles, injury prevention, nutrition, and dance pedagogy. This is primarily a movement based class with an emphasis on choreography and performance. Upon completion of this class, students should possess a broader knowledge of dance techniques, body awareness and mechanics, and a greater sense of individual expression and autonomy.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” - Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Audition in spring, minimum 2.0 GPA, and instructor’s approval

This class is a conservatory-style dance program designed to prepare dancers for a collegiate and/or professional career in dance through pre-professional experiences that include training, performance, exposure to colleges and professional dance companies, and portfolio building activities. Students take weekly classes in jazz, contemporary, and ballet with adjunct faculty specializing in their fields, work with guest choreographers in a variety of styles, and perform in theatre venues for concerts and festivals. Upon completion of this class, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency and versability in various dance genres and an understanding of collegiate studies and career opportunities related to dance.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: None
Prerequisites: Audition in Spring, minimum 2.0 GPA, and approval of Instructor.

During this period, the pep squad either practices for games and competitions. NOTE: This is not a UC or CSU approved course.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12, female students
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: None. Fees apply

The Women’s Ensemble consists of all women and functions as an introduction to choral singing.  This group focuses on beginning to intermediate vocal techniques for the female voice found in a broad spectrum of musical styles.  Basic music theory (construction of Major and Minor scales, interval identification, some chordal analysis) and sight-reading are important parts of this curriculum.  The Women’s Ensemble performs at school and community functions, participates in festivals and competitions throughout California, and occasionally goes on tour with the other groups. 

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12, male students
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: None. Fees apply

The Mater Dei Men’s Ensemble performs at major school functions and several concert sites throughout Southern California.  This group focuses on beginning to intermediate vocal techniques for the male voice found in a broad spectrum of music styles.   Basic to intermediate music theory (construction of Major and Minor scales, interval identification, some chordal analysis) and sight-reading (utilizing moveable ‘do’) are important parts of this curriculum. The Mater Dei Men’s Ensemble performs at school and community functions, participates in festivals and competitions throughout California, and occasionally goes on tour with the other groups.  Students who join this ensemble will be expected to take part in concerts and any special rehearsals that may be necessary. 

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Vocal audition required. Auditions are held in May prior to the new school year. Fees apply

Auditions are held in three parts: A vocal audition in front of a panel of judges, students must pass an Aural Aptitude exam, students must then pass sight-reading exam.

Concert Choir is an intermediate level performance course designed to enhance music reading and literacy with a strong emphasis on vocal development and performance.  The Concert Choir performs in no less than 5 formal concerts each year, 3 major festivals and tours frequently both domestically and abroad performing in some of the world’s most beautiful venues.  There is a choir fee of $425 to help cover the costs of transportation, costuming, music and events.  Numerous fundraising opportunities administered through our healthy booster club are available to assist in defraying costs.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Vocal audition required. Auditions are held in May prior to the new school year. Fees apply

Auditions are held in three parts: A vocal audition in front of a panel of judges, students must pass an Aural Aptitude exam, students must then pass sight-reading exam.

The Mater Dei Advanced Women’s Ensemble is comprised of an advanced group of female singers dedicated to the art of choral music.  This highly specialized group will focus on advanced vocal techniques for the female voice as well as learn and perform advanced choral music.  The ensemble takes part in festivals and competitions throughout Southern California and the United States and will have the opportunity to travel. 

Course Length: Year
Grade Level: 9-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Vocal audition required. Auditions are held in May prior to the new school year. Fees apply

Auditions are held in three parts: A vocal audition in front of a panel of judges, students must pass an Aural Aptitude exam, students must then pass sight-reading exam.

The Mater Dei Advanced Men’s Ensemble is comprised of an advanced group of male singers dedicated to the art of choral music.  This highly specialized group will focus on advanced vocal techniques for the male voice as well as learn and perform advanced choral music.  The ensemble takes part in festivals and competitions throughout Southern California and the United States and will have the opportunity to travel. 

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 11-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Cumulative GPA of 3.0, approval of course instructor, At least one year in Advanced Women's Ensemble. Auditions are held in May prior to the new school year.

Auditions are held in three parts: A vocal audition in front of a panel of judges, students must pass an Aural Aptitude exam, students must then pass sight-reading exam. The Honors Advanced Women's Ensemble is a highly specialized group dedicated women's voices to the art of fine choral music. The group is centered on mastering advanced vocal techniques as well as the performance of advanced musical styles. The Mater Dei Advanced Women's Ensemble has built a strong reputation in the community as well as abroad. The heavy demand for concertizing requires a full-time commitment to the group. The ensemble takes part in festivals and competitions throughout Southern California and the United States and will have the opportunity to travel. There is a $450.00 choral fee to help cover the cost of new music, costuming, and transportation needs. Parents and students are required to sign a contract specifying the student’s obligations in this class.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 11-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Cumulative GPA of 3.0, approval of course instructor, At least one year in Advanced Men's Ensemble. Auditions are held in May prior to the new school year.

Auditions are held in three parts: A vocal audition in front of a panel of judges, students must pass an Aural Aptitude exam, students must then pass sight-reading exam.

The Honors Advanced Men's Ensemble is a highly specialized group of tenor/bass voices dedicated to the art of fine choral music. The group is centered on mastering advanced vocal techniques as well as the performance of advanced musical styles. The Mater Dei Advanced Men's Ensemble has built a strong reputation in the community as well as abroad. The heavy demand for concertizing requires a full-time commitment to the group. The ensemble takes part in festivals and competitions throughout Southern California and the United States and will have the opportunity to travel. There is a $450.00 choral fee to help cover the cost of new music, costuming, and transportation needs. Parents and students are required to sign a contract specifying the student’s obligations in this class.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Cumulative GPA of 3.0, approval of course instructor, one year in a Mater Dei performance ensemble. Auditions are held in May prior to the new school year. Fees apply.

Auditions are held in three parts: A vocal audition in front of a panel of judges, students must pass an Aural Aptitude exam, students must then pass sight-reading exam.

The Mater Dei Chamber Singers is a highly specialized group dedicated to the art of fine choral music.  The group is centered on mastering advanced vocal techniques as well as the performance of advanced musical styles.  The Mater Dei Chamber Singers have built a strong reputation in the community as well as abroad.  The heavy demand for concertizing requires a full time commitment to the group.  The ensemble takes part in festivals and competitions throughout Southern California and the United States and will have the opportunity to travel.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12, by audition only
A-G Designation: UC Approval Pending for “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Auditions are held in May prior to the new school year. Fees Apply.

Auditions are held in three parts: A vocal audition in front of a panel of judges, students must pass an Aural Aptitude exam, students must then pass sight-reading exam.

The Mater Dei Honors Acapella Ensembles include Vocal FX (Mixed Acapella), Melody Lane (Girl’s Acapella), Bristol Boys (Boy’s Barbershop), and Rubies (Girl’s Barbershop). These are highly specialized acapella groups dedicated to the art of contemporary and close harmony choral music.  The group is centered on mastering advanced vocal techniques as well as the performance of advanced musical styles.  The heavy demand for concertizing requires a full time commitment to the group.  The ensemble takes part in festivals and competitions throughout Southern California and the United States and will have the opportunity to travel.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Approval of the teacher.

The Mater Dei Handbell Ensemble is one of the premier handbell choirs of Southern California.  The choir rings sixty different bronze bells and up to thirty hand chimes.  Previous experience in handbell ringing is not required since all ringing techniques are taught in class.  The Mater Dei Handbell Choir goes on tour yearly to Las Vegas, Nevada.  The Handbell Choir takes part in yearly festivals and is commonly asked to perform at ten to fifteen special city functions and ceremonies.  Music theory is also taught in class allowing the students to advance in their ability to read and understand musical score.  Instrumentalists and percussionists commonly take this course to improve their music reading skills.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 11-12
A-G Designation: “F” – Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: A Grade of B or higher in all previous Performing Arts Classes. Fees Apply.

This is an advanced level course designed to engage students in learning activities that will help them to achieve the outcomes assessed by the College Board’s Advanced Placement Music Theory Examination. The AP Music Theory course is designed to develop a student’s ability to recognize, understand, and describe the basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. These abilities will be developed through various listening, performance, written, creative, and analytical exercises. Although this course focuses on music of the Common Practice Period (1600 – 1900), materials and processes found in other styles and genres are also studied. Students are encouraged to sit for the College Board’s Advanced Placement Music Theory Examination. Students who successfully complete the AP Music Theory Examination and plan to major in music in college may be able to enroll in an advanced music theory course, depending upon the individual college’s policy. An AP Test Fee applies.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: None
Prerequisites: None

This course is designed to introduce students to the basic postures, stretching techniques, and relaxation methods of yoga. Students will enhance their balance, endurance, flexibility, and stamina throughout this practice-based course. Emphasis will be placed on mental and emotional wellbeing, stress relief, and building healthy habits. Class is appropriate for all abilities. NOTE: This class is taken for credit only and is pass/no pass and is a fee-based course. This is not a UC or CSU approved course.

Course Length: Year 
Grade Level: 9-12
A-G Designation: None
Prerequisites: None

This course is designed to complement the training and conditioning regimens of student-athletes. Focus will be on flexibility, applied anatomy, biomechanics, balance, and stamina. Elements of sports psychology will provide the mindset tools to prepare student-athletes for peak performance, mental/emotional regulation as it relates to sports, and overall wellbeing. Class is appropriate for all abilities. NOTE: This class is taken for credit only and is pass/no pass and is a fee-based course. This is not a UC or CSU approved course.