Visual and Performing Arts Department

Department Philosophy

At Serra, the visual and performing arts are integral to a rigorous college-preparatory education. Our faculty—working artists as well as dedicated educators—bring professional insight into the classroom, challenging students to express nuanced emotions, communicate with purpose and discover how creativity shapes their understanding of the world and one another. Within a culture that values both discipline and exploration, students find the space to develop their voice and take creative risks.

Across music, drama, filmmaking and visual art, students grapple with complex ideas and give form to their perspectives. They learn to collaborate, revise and solve problems as part of an authentic artistic process. This work deepens their awareness of themselves and others, strengthening both intellect and empathy. In the process, they grow into thoughtful young adults, prepared to engage a dynamic world with creativity and care.

Visual and Performing Arts Courses

Many visual and performing arts courses are Tri-School, offered on the Serra, Mercy, Burlingame or Notre Dame, Belmont campus.

• Concert Band (Beginning Band)
• Symphonic Band
• Jazz Ensemble
• Men’s Chorus
• Introduction to Music: Concepts and Explorations
• AP Music Theory
• Drama 1: Introduction to Performance
• Drama 2: Acting for the Stage
• Drama 3: Advanced Acting and Production
• Drama 4: Advanced Acting and Performance
• Art 1: Foundations in Visual Art and Art History
• Art 2: Advanced Explorations in 2D and 3D Art
• 3-D Art
• Ceramics 1: Foundations in 3-Dimensional Sculpture in Clay
• Ceramics Art/TA
• AP 2D Art and Design
• AP 3D Art and Design
• AP Drawing
• AP Art History
• Introduction to Digital Design
• Film 1: Digital Filmmaking and Screenwriting
• Non-Darkroom Photography
• Video Production 1
• Music and Video Production Lab
• Yearbook Publication

Dance

• Dance V – Partnering Techniques

AP Courses

Following freshman year, students who meet established criteria as outlined in the Serra Course Catalog are eligible to enroll in honors and AP courses, which include:

• AP Music Theory
• AP 2D Art and Design
• AP 3D Art and Design
• AP Drawing
• AP Art History

Student Opportunities

Students deepen their interest in the visual and performing arts beyond the classroom through diverse co-curricular experiences.

Clubs and Honors: Tri-M Music Honor Society, International Thespian Society, National Art Honor Society.

Competitions: Men’s Chorus, Symphonic Band and Jazz Band compete at CMEA Festivals throughout the year.

Tri-School Productions: As members of this dynamic high school theater company, Serra, Mercy, and Notre Dame students shine on stage and unleash their creativity by participating in the fall play and the spring musical. Students interested in performing arts and in technical design have numerous opportunities to act, sing, dance and help by building sets, sewing costumes, and working on lighting and sound.

Leadership Roles: All honor societies have student officers; students participating in Tri-School Productions take on varied leadership roles as members of both cast and crew.