Course # 6111-6112

One Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $25

Art is an introductory class designed to give students a background for both understanding and producing quality visual art. This class follows a rigorous, comprehensive curriculum, as mandated by the Nevada Department of Education Standards for visual arts. Units in drawing on the right side of the brain, elements and principles of design, color theory, painting and multi-media may be explored. In Art 2 technical skills will be refined by working from observation, judging proportion using sighting and referencing. Artwork will incorporate basic composition and perspective. Students will demonstrate the use of the elements and principles of design, study the historical context of art, and develop their critiquing skills. Various drawing and painting materials and techniques will be used.

Course # 6113-6114

Full Year = 1 credit

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art 1-2

Course Fee: $50

In this second-year art course students will further develop their skills and techniques to create works with depth and volume. Various media will be incorporated to further student's knowledge in developing individual expression and ideas. The human figure will be explored through various media including the area of three-dimensional drawings. Students will examine the human form, learn proportion and mass of the figure. Self-expression and creative interpretation will be a focus. Art history will also be a key component in the curriculum.

Course # 6113-6114

One Year = 1 credit (Honors)

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art 3-4

Course Fee: $50

This third-year art course is for the advanced student seeking further enrichment through personal expression and self- evaluation. A focus on community awareness in the visual arts will be stressed. Students will be asked to demonstrate a personal theme and will develop a higher level of ability through self-motivation and direction. Students will be able to display their work within their school environment through personal or group shows. Culmination of the semester will have students submitting a portfolio and artist statements. Students will also submit artwork to the national Scholastic Arts competition.

Course # 6117-6118

One Year = 1 credit (Honors)

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art 5-6

Course Fee: $70

This class is for the advanced student who is seeking intense visual arts experience in a variety of media. These students may be planning a career or college degree in visual communications or fine art. AP/Honors students are encouraged to take approved/pertinent classes at the Nevada Museum of Art.

Course #6263-6264

Full Year = 1 credit (Advanced Placement)

Prerequisite: Completion of the 3-4 level Art Courses with a B or better and/or instructor approval.

Course Fee: $70 

This class is a year-long course for the advanced student who is seeking intense visual arts experience in a variety of media. These students may be planning a career or college degree in art or visual communication. The course is designed to prepare students to submit portfolios to the College Board's advanced placement Art Portfolio in 2D- design. Students enrolled in AP studio Art are required to submit a portfolio. This portfolio will consist of 5 matted pieces of their best quality work and twenty-four images of work showing a breadth of media and a concentration of one area of study. All AP exams have a cost associated with them.

Course #6261-6262

Full Year = 1 credit (Advanced Placement)

Prerequisite: Completion of the 3-4 level Art Courses with a B or better and/or instructor approval.

Course Fee: $70 

This class is a year-long course for the advanced student who is seeking intense visual arts experience in a variety of media. These students may be planning a career or college degree in art or visual communication. The course is designed to prepare students to submit portfolios to the College Board's advanced placement Art Portfolio in drawing. This studio class will focus on drawing media. Students enrolled in AP studio Art are required to submit a portfolio. This portfolio will consist of 5 matted pieces of their best quality work and twenty-four images of work showing a breadth of media and a concentration of one area of study. Students are required to take the AP exam in May. All AP exams have a cost associated with them.

Course # 6131-6132

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $70

This introductory course focuses on the skills and knowledge that students need to create ceramic sculpture and pottery. Students will become familiar with the entire ceramic process from making clay to firing and glazing their work as well as the geology and chemistry of clay and glazes. Several important hand-building techniques will be taught including pinch building, coil building, slab building, and a brief introduction to wheel thrown pottery. Students will also become familiar with the elements and principles of art, as well as the work of some important ceramists and other modern sculptors.

Course # 6133-6134

Full Year = 1 credit

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Ceramics 1-2 and/or recommendation of instructor

Course Fee: $80

Ceramics 3 will focus heavily on advanced hand building and wheel throwing. Students will work with different clays and decorative methods. Clear use of the elements and principles of design will be stressed. Historical uses of clay and ceramics will be incorporated with all projects. Critiques will be used to evaluate student work and that of others. Ceramics 4 is an in-depth three-dimensional design study. Sculptural forms and advanced independent projects in sculpture, throwing, and hand building will be assigned. A high level of the use of the elements and principles of design will be stressed. Historical uses of clay and ceramics will be incorporated with all projects. Critiques will be used to evaluate student work and that of others.

Course # 6135-6136

Full Year = 1 credit (Honors)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Ceramics 3-4 and/or recommendation of the instructor

Course Fee: $80

In Ceramics 5-6 students will continue to expand on their knowledge of ceramic and glaze chemistry while continuing to refine their hand built and wheel thrown techniques. Students will study and research important technical and artistic developments in the history of Ceramics and its uses worldwide as well the work of important contemporary Ceramic artists.

Course # 6137-6138

Full Year = 1 credit (Honors)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Ceramics 5-6 and/or recommendation of the instructor

Course Fee: $80

In Ceramics 7-8 students will have the opportunity to pursue and refine their artistic voice using the ceramic medium and the continued study of important historic and contemporary Ceramic artist. It is expected that students will demonstrate a high level of technical proficiency and knowledge. Students will create a body of exhibition quality work and will be required to exhibit their work.

Course #6501-6502

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $25

This course is designed for the beginning theatre student who is interested in learning the fundamentals of theatre arts. Instruction will include theatre etiquette, script analysis and critical response, improvisation, pantomime & movement, voice, interpretation, scene work, solo acting, and theatrical production. Course work will also include written critical analysis, playwriting, careers in theatre, theatre history, and performance projects. Student participation in co-curricular performances is required for successful completion of the course.

Course #6511-6512

Full Year = 1 credit

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Theatre Arts 1-2

Course Fee: $40

This course is an intermediate level drama course in acting, movement, physical theatre, playwrighting, and play production. Instruction will include challenging units in character development and script analysis while preparing for performances of monologues and scenes. Students also may expect to learn basic stage makeup application, mask and puppetry performance techniques, stage combat, and production elements for a one-act play. Student participation in some co-curricular rehearsals and performances is required for successful completion of the course.

Course #6503-6504

Full Year = 1 credit (repeatable)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Theatre Arts 3-4

Course Fee: $40

This course is designed to challenge upper-level actors with a variety of sophisticated approaches to scene work and monologues, including an emphasis on theory and world theatre. Instruction will focus on deepening student understanding of role development, critical analysis, film, playwrighting and devising, dramaturgy, and improvisation. Study will be centered on both classical and contemporary plays. Student participation in co-curricular rehearsals and performances is required for successful completion of the course.

Course #6509-6510

Full Year = 1 credit (repeatable)

Course Fee: $40

Overview of theater history with a specific focus on performing spaces and conventions used between primitive and contemporary eras. Concepts of design and techniques of construction for scenery, props, lighting, costumes, make-up and masks. Shop safety and manual skills in carpentry, electricity, painting, sewing and drafting. Students will learn to read, analyze, and interpret dramatic literature. They will apply their interpretations into renderings, blueprints and models that could, or will, be synthesized into a unified scheme for an actual production. Course includes lectures and demonstrations, guided practice in laboratory situations, cooperative projects, peer critiques, and written evaluations of local theatrical productions.

Course #6641-6642

Full Year = 1 credit

Prerequisite:  Middle School Advanced Orchestra or instructor approval

Course Fee: $35

Concert Orchestra offers progressing level instruction for students on violin, viola, cello, and double bass.  Students will solidify their understanding of the elements of music through performance and identifying relationships between music, other disciplines, and daily life. Emphasis will be placed on expanding technique through musical community.  Students will be required to perform in concerts during and/or after school wearing the ensemble’s designated attire.  Out of school rehearsals may be required.  Other events such as honor ensembles, Solo & Ensemble Festival, and All-State Orchestra may be required per teacher’s directive.  For an annual rental fee, school instruments are available for students who qualify.

Course #6625-6626

Full Year = 1 credit (repeatable)

Honors credit available for 10th-12th graders who complete additional requirements

Prerequisite:  10th grade, 11th grade, 12th grade who have completed Concert Orchestra or instructor approval.  9th grade with concurrent enrollment in Concert Orchestra.

Course Fee: $35

Eclectic Styles Orchestra is a year-long course for 10th graders, 11^th graders, and 12th graders.  This course is also available for all 9th grade students simultaneously enrolled in Concert Orchestra. Students are encouraged to enroll concurrently in a second orchestra ensemble.  Students will augment and connect musical knowledge, understanding, and performances through music literature including (but not limited to) American Roots music, blues, classical, fiddle, jazz, rock and non-Western musical styles. Students will be required to perform in concerts during and/or after school wearing the ensemble’s designated attire. Out of school rehearsals may be required. Other events such as honor ensembles, Solo & Ensemble Festival, and All-State Orchestra may be required per teacher’s directive. For an annual rental fee, school instruments are available for students who qualify. Other instruments may join per instructor approval. 

Course #6645-6646

Full Year = 1 credit (repeatable)

Prerequisite:  Instructor approval or Concert Orchestra

Course Fee: $35

Sinfonia Orchestra offers advancing level instruction for students on violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Students will extend their understanding of the elements of music through performance and identifying relationships between music, other disciplines, and daily life. Emphasis will be placed on expanding technique through musical community.  Students will be required to perform in concerts during and/or after school wearing the ensemble’s designated attire.  Out of school rehearsals may be required.  Other events such as honor ensembles, Solo & Ensemble Festival, and All-State Orchestra may be required per teacher’s directive.  For an annual rental fee, school instruments are available for students who qualify.

Full Year = 1 credit (repeatable)

Honors credit available for 10th-12th graders who complete additional requirements

Prerequisite:  Instructor approval and Concert Orchestra or Sinfonia Orchestra

Course Fee: $35

Chamber Orchestra will focus on increased technical and musical fluency for 10th grade, 11th grade, and 12th grade students on violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Acceptance for advancement to Chamber Orchestra will be based upon application (which includes a performance audition).  Students will refine their understanding of the elements of music through performance and identifying relationships between music, other disciplines, and daily life. Emphasis will be placed on refining technique through musical community.  Students will be required to perform in concerts during and/or after school wearing the ensemble’s designated attire.  Out of school rehearsals may be required.  Other events such as honor ensembles, Solo & Ensemble Festival, and All-State Orchestra may be required per teacher’s directive.  For an annual rental fee, school instruments are available for students who qualify.

Course #6809-6810

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $60

This course is the entry level for choir students.

This is an advanced course designed for students interested in singing and performing with an all treble choir. Literature ranging from traditional to contemporary will be covered. Chorus will be divided into three and four-part arrangement (SSA, SSAA). Students are eligible to audition for Advanced Choir (Intermezzo) as well as for Washoe County School District Honor Choir and Nevada All-State Choir. Students are required to participate in co-curricular rehearsals and performances beyond the school day to receive class credit. Class performances will include but are not limited to Fall, Winter, Zone, Spring, and Festival. This class may qualify for Honors credit. See the instructor for Honors requirements.

Course #6807-6908

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $60

This course is the entry level for choir students

Students continue to use and refine good vocal technique to further the student’s musicianship and performance skills. Students are required to participate in co-curricular rehearsals and performances beyond the school day to receive class credit. Class performances will include but are not limited to Fall, Winter, Zone, Spring, and Festival. This class may qualify for Honors credit. See the instructor for Honors requirements.

Course #6803-6804

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $60

Audition required

This course is open to all advanced choir students interested in continuing the development of singing skills, multi-part singing, sight reading, and other musicianship skills. With this training, students will be eligible to audition for Treble Choir or another advanced choir, as well as for Washoe County School District Honor Choir and Nevada All-State Choir. Students are required to participate in co-curricular rehearsals and performances beyond the school day to receive class credit. Class performances will include but are not limited to Fall, Winter, Zone, Spring, and Festival. This class may qualify for Honors credit. See the instructor for Honors requirements.

Course #6811-6812

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $60

Audition required

This course is designed for the advanced vocal student and will develop solo as well as ensemble singing. Students continue to refine vocal skills to further the student's musicianship through the performance of more advanced literature. An appropriate treble/bass balance will be maintained. Audition is required. Students are required to participate in co-curricular rehearsals and performances beyond the school day to receive class credit. Class performances will include but are not limited to Fall, Winter, Zone, Spring, and Festival. This class may qualify for Honors credit. See the instructor for Honors requirements.

Course #6817-6818

Full Year = 1 credit

Audition Required; Concurrent enrollment in music ensemble required

The vocal ensemble class is designed for advanced choral students interested in singing madrigals, vocal jazz, and a cappella music of many styles. This class will not exceed 16 students (four on each vocal part) to qualify for district and state ensemble competitions. The emphasis will be tone production, beauty, and blend. Students in this class will be expected to audition for WCSD Honor Choir and Nevada All-State Choir. In addition, students will be expected to sing with the ensemble at district and state solo/ensemble festivals and competitions.

• The band program at McQueen consists of the following courses: Marching Band/Wind Ensemble, Marching Band/Concert Band, Color Guard, Jazz Band, and Band: Percussion.
• Students must be enrolled in any of the above courses for the entire year.
• Members of the Marching Band/Wind Ensemble, Marching Band/Concert Band, Percussion and Color Guard merge to form the McQueen High School Marching Band. Marching Band meets for 12 to 14 weeks in the first quarter of the school year outside of the normal school day.
• Students in Color Guard and Band: Percussion MUST Participate in the Marching Band Program. Students will earn a .5 credit PE Waiver for their participation in addition to the fine arts credit for their class.
• Students in Marching Band/Wind Ensemble and Marching Band/Concert Band are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to participate in the Marching Band Program. Students who participate will earn a .5 credit PE Waiver for their participation, in addition to the fine arts credit for their class. Students not participating in Marching Band will register for an alternate course with different grading expectations during the fall semester.
• Students may NOT be simultaneously enrolled in Color Guard and Band: Percussion.
• Students playing percussion instruments should sign up for Band: Percussion. These students should only sign up for Concert Band or Wind Ensemble if they also play a wind instrument.
• The Jazz Band and Wind Ensemble require an audition for placement in the group.
• Students auditioning for Wind Ensemble, or the Jazz Band MUST currently be a member of a McQueen music ensemble (i.e. Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Orchestra, or any of the Choir ensembles), or be an incoming Freshman. The only exception to this guideline would be if, after auditions, specific instrumentation is required, and no qualified member is available. In this instance, a student who is not currently enrolled in another McQueen music performance group may fill the vacancy.
• Course Fees include participation in Marching Band for Marching Band/Wind Ensemble, Wind Ensemble/Concert Band, Band: Percussion, and Color Guard. Additionally, WCSD district festival, in county travel, ordering music, etc. are paid by the fees collected for all classes.
• ADDITIONAL FEES: Fees in addition to what is listed for each course may be assessed for participation in extra activities such as Winter Guard, Indoor Percussion, and/or overnight/out- of-state trips. Students who are not in an ensemble who participate in Marching Band may also be assessed a fee ranging between $500-$600.
• Concert dress is all black.
• Students must have their own instrument or use an available school instrument upon payment of a $50 rental fee.

Course #6715-6716

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $550

This class will provide the percussion students with a comprehensive study of all aspects of percussion music and performance. Studies will include snare drum, mallets, drum set, auxiliary instruments, and styles of percussion from world music to jazz. There may be required after school rehearsals and performances throughout the school year. All members of the Percussion Ensemble are members of the band program and are expected to perform at all band performances. All members of the Percussion Ensemble may be required to participate in marching band. Students in the Marching Band may be required to attend a band camp held in the summer prior to school starting. This is an intermediate to advanced level band class. Students earning credit in the course may also earn a .5 credit PE waiver during the fall semester.

Course #6711-6712

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $100

This course is designed to provide instrumentalists with an experience in all aspects of the modern wind band technique. The Wind Ensemble will consist of students who are at a playing level of upper intermediate to advanced level and will perform appropriate standard wind band repertoire. Exploration of various styles, theory, and techniques of wind instrument performance will be offered. There may be required after school rehearsals and performances throughout the school year. All members of the Wind Ensemble are eligible to audition and participate in the Washoe County Honor Band, Nevada All-State Honor Band, and Solo and Ensemble Festivals.

Course #6707-6708

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $150

This group is for students who wish to further their musical knowledge and skill through the study of Jazz. Membership in this ensemble may be by audition. Members of the Jazz Band may be required to enroll in Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, or Marching Band, unless by special permission of the director. The focus of the Jazz Band will be on the performing of various jazz styles, articulation, and improvisation. The Jazz Band performs at various concerts as well as festivals and competitions in and around the Reno/Sparks area.

Course #6703-6704

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $100

This course is designed to provide instrumentalists with an experience in all aspects of the modern wind band technique. The Concert Band will consist of students who are at a playing level of beginner to intermediate and will perform appropriate standard wind band repertoire. Most rehearsal will take place during required classroom time. There may be after school rehearsals and performances throughout the school year. All members of the Concert Band are eligible to audition and participate in the Washoe County Honor Band, Nevada All-State Honor Band, and Solo and Ensemble Festivals.

Course#6889-6890

Full Year = 1 credit

Course Fee: $600

This course is designed to encompass all facets of today's accepted standards of Marching Band and Concert Band. It will focus on the development of musical technique, sight-reading, and ensemble performance. There are many co-curricular activities that make up a band program. Students may be required to attend practices and performances outside of the regular school day in order to receive credit for the class. Performances may take place throughout the entire school year. Students in the Marching Band may be required to attend a band camp held in the summer prior to school starting. Students earning credit in the course may also earn a .5 credit PE waiver during the fall semester.