Performing Arts

Through the course of Rhetoric School, students become familiar with countless works in classic literature, through reading, writing and discussion. Rhetoric Theatre allows students to explore these classic characters and storylines from a different perspective with the aim of bringing them to life on stage. Students begin to see literature, not just as words on a page, but living characters each with their own story to tell.  As actors, students are challenged to step out of their comfort zones and into the shoes of another to explore the personalities, traits, styles and stories of others, in order to form real characters from scripts.  They learn the concepts of stage presence, physical movement, voice control, character development, rehearsal techniques (including improvisation), self-discipline, teamwork/collaboration and have the opportunity to build their confidence.

This course also explores the background and off-stage elements of theatre productions with opportunities for students to participate in set design, costume design, lighting/sound and stage management.  Rhetoric students collaborate to put together two fully-staged theatrical productions each school year, with the goal of mirroring the standard of excellence Trinity upholds in all areas of our school.

Symphony Orchestra is an audition group that allows students to learn music, theory, and symphonic literature by playing instruments in a group setting. This class is designed to increase overall musicianship, both academically through training in music theory, sight-reading, and musical application and through performance opportunities. Students will grow in understanding as they learn to demonstrate the following: tone, balance, blend, intonation, articulations, and proficiency in their knowledge of the music.  The Symphony Orchestra will perform at several concerts a year and participate in a minimum of one “rated” festival, other community outreach events and participate in one field trip. Students will learn to grow as musicians, as leaders and use their gifts for the glory of God.

Jazz Ensemble is an audition group that allows students to learn music, theory, and symphonic literature by playing instruments in a group setting. This class is designed to increase overall musicianship, both academically through training in sight-reading and musical application, and through performance opportunities. Along with technical aspects of growth, students  will study basic jazz theory, the practice and history behind the standard jazz ensemble literature, and their composers. The Jazz Ensemble will perform at least four concerts a year and participate in a minimum of one “rated” festival, other community outreach events and participate in one field trip. 

Vocal Ensemble is a performing group elective at Trinity.  This year-long course explores choral music from a wide variety of styles and time periods through study and performance.  The core curriculum emphasizes the basics of vocal technique, sight-reading, and music theory.  Students in Choral Ensemble are expected to participate in the Christmas Concert, the Spring Concert, the Spring Festival and one or two community performances as a major part of their grade. 

This course is designed for students with little to no guitar experience. Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to playing the guitar at a beginning level and will learn many of the different styles, skills and techniques required to become a successful guitarist. Areas of concentration include: correct posture, note reading, aural skills, flat-picking, singing songs, rhythmic patterns, chord study, finger-picking styles, and musical forms.