Visual and Performing Arts
Visual and Performing Arts courses help to shape students’ abilities to observe, create, use imagination, organize thoughts and feelings, and make informed judgments. As students achieve in the arts, they participate in activities that feed their minds and engage their senses. Through the arts, students discover the richest benefits of life: creative endeavors that inspire self-expression and discovery, reflection, and intellectual growth.
The Visual and Performing Arts department offers various courses in Visual Arts, Dance, Theatre Arts, Vocal, and Instrumental Music. The courses are aligned with the California Content Standards for Visual and Performing Arts and meet the UC/CSU F Requirement for college entrance. Students can participate at the beginning to advanced levels, allowing them to explore or specialize in a particular discipline.
Click here for the Rocklin High Music Boosters Club.
Courses
THAT'S IT! You do not need to read music, play an instrument, have experience with signing or be in choir before. It's open to everyone!
Courses
Art
Art 1:
AP Music Theory
AP Studio Art
Band
Ceramics and Sculpture
Ceramics and Sculpture 1:
Ceramics and Sculpture 1 is a full-year course designed to advance and promote understanding and application of the basic concepts, techniques, and media related to the visual and applied arts. This course meets California State Common Core Standards for the Visual and Performing Arts and has been approved by the College Board to fulfill an A-G requirement for college entrance.
Requirements for this course include producing a portfolio containing artwork demonstrating mastery of all of the following essential concepts and skills. Using a variety of media, students will master:
- Clay Preparation and Maintenance.
- Forming Techniques (Pinch, Slab, Coil).
- Surface Design and/or Treatment.
- A Basic Understanding of Glazing and Firing.
- An introduction to the Potters Wheel.
- Elements and Principles of Design as they apply to three-dimensional art.
- Art Appreciation/History.
- Sculpture in alternative medias such as Soapstone carving.
Course grades are determined by a “portfolio” of artwork, which demonstrates mastery in sculpture/ceramic processes and concepts. (Essential Skills)
- GRADING POLICIES: Students must maintain an overall 70% & have NO outstanding essential skill assignments to pass Art I. Students must attend and contribute to group critiques to receive credit for the class. All assignments are subject to a due date. Late work will only be eligible to receive a 70% score. Once a due date passes, students have 14 days to complete and turn in work for late credit. If the work is completed at mastery level, it will be given a 70% score. No late work will be accepted after the 14-day grace period. In addition to points earned for essential skill assignments, students will receive credit for journal/sketchbook work, class participation, final exams, quizzes, and extra credit assignments. Please note: Extra credit may not be used in lieu of an essential skill assignment.
- HOMEWORK: Homework is rarely given for this class. If you see work at home, it would be safe to assume that it is for one of the following reasons: ineffective use of class time, tardiness, absence, or your child’s own commitment to excellence.
- TECHNOLOGY When a student needs to complete an assignment digitally, it is the student’s responsibility to attain access to a digital device. It is the student’s responsibility to regularly and properly save their electronic work. Losing access to digital work because of equipment malfunction, or loss of access to a digital device due to parental confiscation does not excuse an assignment, nor does it extend the due date. In such a case, it is the student’s responsibility to use a device that is provided by RHS and used during the school day.
- EXTRA ASSISTANCE: Open studio takes place on Blue and Silver Day Plus Periods. The first 30 students to arrive for open studio may stay. Students may also arrange special appointments to meet with the instructor.
- PLUS PERIOD: Students who fall below 70%, or who have a missing assignment, will be placed in Plus Period. Students will be required to come into the studio during that time and will be not be released until they have cleared their grade.
- CONTENT OF ARTWORK: Per RUSD board policy, violent imagery, depictions of drugs or drug abuse, smoking, sexual images, and other questionable content are NOT permitted. Failure to respect this policy will result in a conference with parents and administrative action.
Advanced Ceramics and Sculpture:
RHS Art courses are structured as a one year (two semesters) course. 10 VAPA credits.
Ceramics and Sculpture classes are closely aligned with the California Visual and Performing Arts Framework, and meet UC/CSU requirements.
- $40.00 Materials Voluntary Contribution, (checks made out to Rocklin High School, paid at the Storm Cellar)
Ceramics and Sculpture, Advanced Levels Purpose:
- To develop a body of work which demonstrates discernible and appropriate improvement in quality from beginning to end of year; growth in technical and organizational skills, and in the ability to interpret and express ideas.
- To develop understanding and appreciation of the ceramic medium for self-expression.
- To develop an understanding of which will reinforce your ability to critically examine your work and the work of others.
- To help develop skills related to personal development; self-understanding, self-confidence, organization of time, self-discipline, and ability to make critical evaluations.
Course grades are determined by a “portfolio” of artwork, which demonstrates mastery in sculpture/ceramic processes and concepts. (Essential Skills)
In addition, students will receive credit towards their course grade by the following:
- Class participation (clean up, attitude and behavior)
- Tests, quizzes, notes, art history studies
- Originality and Creativity
- Craftsmanship and Artistic Effort
Grading Policy:
- All major assignments are subject to a Due Date. This date marks the point at which class time is no longer given for that assignment, and we move on to the next assignment.
- At the end of each grading period students will be issued one of the following grades: A, B, C, or NC (No Credit).
- Throughout the course, there are multiple opportunities to demonstrate mastery of the required skills and concepts.
- It is the student’s responsibility to make up any missed studio time when returning from an absence.
Students are expected to…
- Be in the assigned seat and ready to listen at the time class begins.
- Treat equipment, supplies, classmates, and teachers with respect.
- Clean up at the end of the class period.
- Be prepared and bring appropriate items to class.
- Engage in quiet conversation during lab activities, but give absolute attention during demonstrations and lectures.
Choir
Auditions for 2025-26 ARE NOW AVAILABLE:
The dates are April 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and April 22, 23, and 24. Times vary each day. Use the Sign Up Genius link to reserve your spot!
Sign Up Here Rocklin High School Choir Auditions for 25/26 School Year
Audition IN-PERSON. It is not difficult. We try to make is simple and fun. Auditions are one-on-one with Mr. Spiess and take about 10 minutes.- Sing any song you choose with a Karaoke-style instrumental track from your phone.
- Song should be 1 verse and 1 chorus.
- A short-range check will occur to determine voice type and placement.
RHS Choirs 2025-26 - Auditioned vs Non-Auditioned:
- Concert Choir(s): Non-Auditioned:
- Open to female-Soprano/Alto singers of any grade level. Just sign up and you are in. If you did not sign up and you want to be in the class it is still possible.
- Simple fill out this choir information form and we will place you in Concert Choir
- Men's Chorus: Non-Auditioned
- Open to any male- Tenor, Baritone, Bass singer of any grade level. Just sign up and you are in!
- If you did not sign up and you want to be in the class it is still possible. Simple fill out this choir information form and we will place you in Men's Chorus.
- Advanced Women's Ensemble (AWE): Auditioned Choir
- Open to any female soprano/alto singer desiring to perform high-quality and challenging work in a fun, fast-paced learning environment. This ensemble is open to any female/treble singer of any grade level attending RHS. Singers must complete an audition with Mr. Spiess.
- Chamber Choir: Auditioned Choir
- Chamber Choir is open to any male or female singer enrolled at RHS.
- All singers must complete an audition with Mr. Spiess.
Transfer and out-of-district students, please sign up for an online audition time. Email Mr. Spiess sspiess@rocklinusd.org
RHS Choir Calendar--Click Here
Click here for the RHS Choir on SoundCloud!
Courses:
- Choir:
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Music Theory: Each student may occasionally complete music theory assignments. If you do not receive a passing grade on a worksheet, you can correct your mistakes and turn it in for full credit. Some of these worksheets and assignments may be “Essential Skills”. Check Schoology to see if the assignment is an ES.Section and Mixed Ensemble Tests: You may be tested in your sections or in small mixed ensembles. This is to ensure that you are learning your music on time and can sing with other parts as well.
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Performance Policy: This is a “co-curricular” performance-based class. If you are absent for performances, you are not fulfilling an essential class skill.
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Attendance at ALL Concerts is EXPECTED. These performances are considered “Essential Skills” and missing them for any reason will result in an incomplete/no mark grade. Think of them as your quarter, midterm or final exams. You are expected to be on time and stay for the entire concert. This is also true for the Dress Rehearsal before each concert. Any conflicts must be cleared with me, and the concert and rehearsal dates should be put on your family and work calendars to avoid any future conflicts. “Call Time” for all concerts is always 1.5 hours before the concert time unless instructed otherwise.NOTE: There may be additional concerts throughout the year including Festivals, Tours and other Performing Venues. Any performance other than the Winter and Spring Concerts, Creepy Concert and VAPA Assembly should be considered a priority. If a conflict arises you must inform me within two weeks of any performance in which you have received advance notice. Failure to do so will result in the loss of points. This applies to absences due to emergency and illness as well. There is a makeup assignment available, but trust me you would rather be at the concert!
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Student Concert Set Up: Each student will be required to help set up/take down for concerts and other events. Specific information will be given pertaining to set up for each concert and event during class time as needed.
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Concert Attire: Each Chorus has specific Concert attire. Dresses and Tuxedos. Assigned Concert Attire must be worn at each formal concert. Sometimes we use informal concert attire which will be determined by the event.Dresses and Tuxedos are provided by RHS Choir.
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We will do our best to give sizes that fit perfectly to each singer. Unfortunately, one size does not fit all. Students may have to have their attire altered to fit perfectly. Alterations should be done with concert shoes ON. Do not hem dresses or tuxedos without concert shoes on. Dresses should be hemmed 1 inch from the ground with concert shoes on. Please leave at least one inch of material at the bottom of each dress when altered.
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Students may purchase a dress or tuxedo at cost if desired. Many choir members use their tuxedos for formal dances. We encourage this as a way to save money for families throughout the year. All RHS owned dresses and tuxedos must be returned clean (dry cleaned for tuxedos, machine washed cold/air dried for dresses) no later than one week after the last concert of the year.
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- Choir Student Leadership:
- This is a wonderful way to develop your musician, educator, and leader skills. Although there will be many challenges along the way, the rewards are unlike any other.
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Fall Semester - Students Conductors may:
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Teach a lesson on vocal technique (20- 30min)
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Direct warm-ups once a week (10- 15 min)
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Teach at least one basic concept of Music Theory during the semester
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Teach and direct 1-2 for the Winter Concert. You can look in our music library or online at either of these sites:
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Spring Semester - Student Conductors may:
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Direct warm-ups twice a week (10-15min)
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Teach at least two basic concepts of Music Theory during the semester.
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Teach and direct 1-2 pieces for the Spring Concert. At least one of these pieces must include either mixed meter.
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(ex. 3/4 and 4/4) or irregular meter (ex. 5/4, 7/4).
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Lessons:
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Within the first few weeks of each semester, we will meet after school to schedule your lessons and go over how to create and organize lesson plans. Lesson plans are due to the class before you teach. We will discuss effective teaching methods, conducting patterns, etc. If you have any questions regarding what you are teaching or how to teach it, please do not hesitate to ask.
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Participation:
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You should be singing with your group if you are not teaching directly during class. You will serve as a "super section leader if you are not a choir member." I might have you take a section into another room to review parts or sing with a particular section to help reinforce good sound and intonation. This means you should be familiar with all ensemble repertoire, not just the songs you teach.
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- RHS Piano Lab:
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This course is designed to teach the concepts and fundamentals necessary to play the piano. While performing on the piano is the primary goal of this class, the basics of music theory, such as notation, rhythm, melody and harmony, will also be learned. Students will develop the self-discipline needed for good practice habits as they prepare for class performances.
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Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
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Follow classroom procedures regarding practice and instruction.
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Demonstrate basic competencies of piano performance.
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Identify music notation and symbols relative to the level of proficiency.
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Identify basic music forms in piano compositions.
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Demonstrate proper performance and audience technique.
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Independently prepare music for performance.
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Dance
Welcome to Rocklin High School Dance! Be sure to follow our social media and click the link in bio for all updates, auditions, and upcoming performances @rocklindance
- Click here for current course and audition information.
Enjoy a Dance 1 Showcase video snippet here:
Students may choose to receive VAPA, P.E., or CTE credit. The courses seek to provide students with a comprehensive dance education encompassing the technical, theatrical, creative, and fitness components of dance. Dance 1 (beginning dance) through Dance 4 (advanced dance) are offered, and each course includes daily technique practice, choreography, and artistry and culminates with a professional-level production for the school and community to enjoy.
Rocklin Dance Teacher Mrs. Sarah Blankenship has a wide range of dance teaching and performance experiences:
Rocklin Dance presents multiple opportunities for the students to perform each year:
- Visual and Performing Arts Creepy Concert (October)
- Visual and Performing Arts Assembly (February)
- Dance 4 Project (December)
- Dance 1 Showcase (March)
- Advanced Dance Show (May)
Course Offerings
Visit the Rocklin High School Course Catalog for detailed course descriptions. You can also access information (including advanced dance class audition info) here.
- Dance One - Beginning technique dance course, three sections
- Dance Two - Intermediate technique dance course
- Dance Three - Advanced Intermediate technique dance course
- Dance Four - Advanced technique course
Dance Class Policies
- Rocklin Dance is part of the Visual and Performing Arts Department, though students can choose P.E. credit instead of VAPA credit. Students make these decisions with their assigned counselor.
- Students have unlimited extra credit opportunities by attending teacher-approved dance shows and following the RHS Dance Critique Guidelines. Each written critique can earn up to 25 points!
- To receive participation points, all students must have jazz shoes by October 1st of each school year. All students will wear TAN jazz shoes in their dance show.
- Late work is always accepted; students can receive up to 70% credit.
- Suppose a student has a parent or doctor’s note requesting that they do not participate in a class period. In that case, they must still dress down fully (just as they would with any P.E. course) and complete a make-up assignment to receive participation points for the day. Post-dated parent notes are not accepted.
- If a student can not participate in dance for more than 6 weeks per a doctor’s note, they will not receive credit for the semester.
- You can only receive participation points if you come to class (on time, following the participation point guidelines above) - come to class!!
Guitar Lab
Orchestra
Piano Lab
Theatre
Theatre 1:
- This one-year course is designed as an overview of the world of Theatre Arts. The students will learn acting skills and styles and a variety of technical theatre elements. Because they are required to perform on the stage a number of times, they gain a higher level of confidence and learn techniques to help eliminate stage fright.
- Course Objectives: In order to pass the class, the student must demonstrate mastery of the following essential skills:
- The student will know all theatrical terminology, including stage directions, areas of the theater, and acting terms.
- The student will demonstrate the ability to create and prepare a theatrical work. This will include an understanding of playwriting, rehearsal procedures and character development.
- The student will know how to evaluate a theatrical work in the areas of form, content, technique and purpose.
- The student will demonstrate an awareness of a variety of theatrical styles.
- The student will demonstrate that theatre both reflects and influences culture.
- The student will demonstrate an understanding of various technical theatre elements, such as set building and painting and operating the light and sound boards.
- The student will demonstrate the ability to perform solo on stage.
- The student will demonstrate the ability to be responsible and to work successfully with his/her peers.
Theatre 2/3:
- This course is designed as an intermediate/ lower advanced level acting class and will be a more thorough look into the world of Theatre Arts. The students will continue to strengthen their acting skills and broaden their understanding of various theatrical styles and periods. During the year, the class will create an original production that will be performed for the district's elementary schools and their families.
- Course Objectives: To pass the class, the student must demonstrate mastery of the following essential skills:
- The student will know all theatrical terminology, including stage directions, areas of the theater, and acting terms.
- The student will demonstrate the ability to create and prepare a theatrical work. This will include an understanding of playwriting, rehearsal procedures and character development.
- The student will know how to evaluate a theatrical work in terms of form, content, technique, and purpose.
- The student will demonstrate an awareness of a variety of theatrical styles.
- The student will demonstrate that theatre both reflects and influences culture.
- The student will demonstrate an understanding of various technical theatre elements, such as set building and painting, stage makeup, and operation of the light and sound boards.
- The student will demonstrate the ability to perform solo on stage.
- The student will demonstrate the ability to be responsible and to work successfully with his/her peers.
Theatre 4:
- This one-year course is designed as a professional training class. The actors will have three major assignments during the school year. We will open the year with the Mask Characterization unit, which will show the actors how to develop a character through physicalization and serve as a great bonding exercise for the class. In the Fall and Winter, the class will write and prepare an original project to be performed at the LENAEA THEATRE FESTIVAL. While doing this, they will also research, write, and rehearse their own one- or two-person show. The One/Two Person Shows will be performed in the late Spring.
- Course Objectives: To pass the class, the student must demonstrate mastery of the following skills:
- The student will demonstrate the ability to create and prepare a theatrical work. This will include an understanding of playwriting, rehearsal procedures, publicity, and all technical elements, including lighting and sound design, set building and painting, costume design, stage makeup and effects.
- The student will demonstrate an awareness of a variety of theatrical styles.
- The student will demonstrate that theatre both reflects and influences culture.
- The student will demonstrate the ability to be responsible and to work successfully with his/her peers.
Technical Theatre:
- This one-year course may be taken for either the Visual and Performing Arts or the Technology graduation requirement, but it will not satisfy both simultaneously. Students may take this course for more than one year. This class is responsible for creating and building the sets and props for all RHS productions and concerts. The students meet at the beginning of each period, receive individual or group assignments, and jump into production. Students with advanced skills will have the opportunity to take a leadership role in set design and construction.,
- Course Objectives: To pass the class, the student must demonstrate mastery of the following skills:
- The student will know all theatrical terminology, including stage directions and areas of the theater.
- The student will demonstrate the ability to create a theatrical work through their set design projects.
- The student will demonstrate an awareness of a variety of theatrical styles.
- The student will demonstrate an understanding of basic technical theatre elements. This includes the use of basic hand/power tools, assembly of major set pieces, safety rules, painting skills, and operation of the light board. In addition to the basic skills, some students may get more advanced experience in scenic painting techniques, additional scenic design techniques, design and construction of props, publicity, and box office duties.
- The student will demonstrate the ability to be responsible and to work successfully with their peers.