“How-To” Handbook

For Prospective Academy Students

Contents

Lamar Middle School Fine Arts Academy overview………………………………………………………………..4

STUDENT REMOVAL PROCESS FROM FINE ARTS ACADEMY……………………………...……………………………….5

Minimum Requirements by Strand......

Bands......

Scheduling Band Classes......

More information......

Orchestra......

Orchestra Classes......

Vocal Music......

Requirements......

Theatre Arts......

Theatre Classes......

Expectations......

Visual ArtS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………12

AUDITION INFORMATION AND TIMELINE……………………………………………………………………………………….13

Portfolio AND AUDITION Requirements......

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?......

CRITERIA FOR SETTING AN AUDITION/PORTFOLIO REVIEW QUALIFIED APPLICANTS

Policies for Auditions......

Lamar Fine Arts Academy Application......

English Teacher Recommendation......

Math Teacher Recommendation......

Music Teacher Recommendation......

Theatre Arts Teacher Recommendation Form......

Visual Arts Teacher Recommendation Form......

“How-To”

Discover

The

Fine Arts

Curriculum

The following fine arts programs are strands in the fine arts academy:

Band

Orchestra

Vocal Music

Theatre Arts

Visual Arts

The following fine arts programs are not strands in the Fine Arts Academy but are offered as Fine Arts electives:

Dance (Beginning and Intermediate) *P.E. credit

Guitar(Beginning and Intermediate/Advanced)

Piano (Beginning)

Overview

The Lamar Middle School Fine Arts Academy (LMS FAA) is Austin ISD’s signature middle school fine arts program within the McCallum High School Fine Arts vertical team. At Lamar Middle School all students have access to all fine arts programs.However, only students accepted into the LMSFAA are assured a seat in the class of their primary strand. The LMS FAA accepts students at the 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Students remain LMS FAA members for their entire middle school career unless they are removed from the program. All LMS FAA students must enroll in a year-long course in their primary strand each school year.

All incoming 6th grade students accepted in the FAA will enroll in a year-long Fine Arts class in their strand of interest. These students will complete the application process, but will not be required to schedule an audition. Further, 6th grade FAA students will not be required to take Keyboarding in 6th grade to allow for a year-long Fine Arts class in their schedule. 7th and 8th grade FAA students will still be required to complete the Keyboarding requirement. Students wishing to apply for placement as a 6th grader in advanced classes must complete the audition process.

LMS FAA students that transfer between strands must reapply for the new strand as directed by the LMS FAA selection committee. Transfers between strands will not be allowed after the 3rd week of the school year.

The LMS FAA selection committee is comprised of the student’s FAA advisor (a teacher in their fine arts strand), their school counselor and administrator. In the case of a request to transfer between strands, the receiving LMS FAA advisor will serve on the selection committee. The chairperson of the LMS FAA selection committee is the student’s LMS FAA advisor.

In the case of a LMS FAA student in danger of being removed from the LMS FAA, the student’s LMS FAA advisor will serve as the point of contact for all parties, and will collaborate with the student, parent, counselor and administrator according to the removal process as described in this handbook. A student removed from the LMS FAA may not reapply at a later date.

Students interested in applying for the LMS FAA must complete the LMS FAA application; attach to the application a copy of last year’s report card as well as the first semester report card for this year; attach to your application a copy of the most recent TAKS or STAAR scores; and have three teachers complete recommendations - using the forms provided below – and sent to Lamar Middle School through school mail.

Students failing to meet application deadlines may be placed on probationary status by his/her LMS FAA selection committee upon entry into the FAA.

REMEMBER TO CHECK THE BOX ON YOUR CHOICE SHEET THAT INDICATES YOU ARE APPLYING FOR THE LMS FAA.

Lamar MS Fine Arts Academy

Student Removal Process

A Fine Arts Academy student may be removed from the Fine Arts Academy for one or more of the following reasons:

_____Lack of academic achievement

_____Excessive absences/truancy issues

_____Failure to abide by student code of conduct

_____Failure to meet the requirements of the fine arts strand

  1. LMS FAA Advisor must inform student that he/she is failing to meet one or more of the above requirements to remain in the fine arts academy at least six weeks before the removal can be processed
  2. LMS FAA Advisorand counselor must meet with the student and parent to place the student on probation at least six weeks before the end of the semester. A probationary letter must be signed by the LMS FAA Advisor, counselor, parent and student which describe the conditions and remediation during the probationary period. (PROBATIONARY LETTER WILL BE PROVIDED BY CASE WORKER)
  3. Counselor and LMS FAA Advisormust meet with the parent to present the letter of removal

If the parent fails to attend the above meeting(s), the campus must reschedule for a later date agreed upon by both parties and not to exceed five school days. Failure of the parent to attend the rescheduled meeting waives the parent’s right to participate in that meeting allowing the campus to proceed without the parent. The parent will be sent a copy of any documentation presented at the meeting.

Note: Steps not included in this document but helpful in the removal process are the LMS FAA Advisor and counselor’s interventionssuch as documented communications with the home that could lead to probation for removal. These interventions must include documented conference(s) with the student, parent and counselor.

Requirements for ALL Fine Arts Academy students:

  • Maintain academic eligibility
  • Maintain acceptable daily attendance
  • Abide by the student code of conduct
  • MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THEIR FINE ARTS ACADEMY STRAND

Minimum Requirements by Strand

Minimum requirements for VISUAL ARTS majors:

Year-long Art each year

Participate in middle school Visual Arts Scholastic Event (Jr. VASE) each year

Minimum requirements for THEATER ARTS majors:

6th Grade Year-long Theatre Arts Class

7th/8th Grade Theatre Production Class (both years)

7th and 8th graders are required to participate in two productions or department projects per year (either cast or crew)

Minimum requirements for MUSIC majors:

Music majors are required to participate in all performances

BAND:

Solo and Ensemble each year (must perform an accompanied solo); TMEA Region Band Audition each year

CHOIR:

2 years of advanced treble or tenor/bass choir

UIL Solo and Ensemble each year; TMEA region auditions each year

ORCHESTRA:

2 semesters of either Fiddle or Rockestra class, enrollment in UIL competing orchestra ensemble each year, AISD Solo and Ensemble Contest, audition for All-Region Orchestra each year

Bands

The Lamar Middle School Band program is highly respected throughout the region on the concert stage. The Scottie Bands consistently receive 1st Divisions in U.I.L Concert and Sight-reading. In 2010-2011, the Lamar Symphonic Winds received the “Overall Outstanding Band” award at the Director’s Choice Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The Symphonic Band and Jazz Factory received “Superior” ratings and “Best in Class” awards. Lamar Band has a long-standing tradition of excellence, and we would love to have you join us.

The following instrumental ensembles and music classes are offered and taught by the Lamar Band staff.

Instrumental Ensembles:

  • Symphonic Winds
  • Symphonic Band
  • Jazz Factory*
  • Beginning Band (6th grade only)

*You must be concurrently enrolled in Symphonic Winds or Symphonic Band. Members of rhythm section (guitar, bass, trap set, piano) are not required to be in one of the aforementioned concert groups.

Scheduling Band Classes

For Academy band majors, band class is required both semesters of your 6th, 7th and 8th grade year. All instrumental ensembles are offered as a fine arts credit or elective. To request band on your schedule, you must sign up for Band. After your audition, the directors will place you in one of the concert instrumental ensembles—Symphonic Winds or Symphonic Band.

More information

Visit the Lamar Band website:

For additional information, please do not hesitate to call the Lamar Band Faculty:

  • James Hairston, Director of Bands, 841-2025
  • Nathan Langfitt, Associate Band Director, 841-2181

Orchestra

Website: www. lamarfineartsacademyorchestra.weebly.com

The Lamar Fine Arts Academy Orchestra program, under the direction of Elizabeth Chappell, is an award-winning program with a long history of excellence. Academy orchestra majors are required to be in one of the competing orchestra ensembles each year, as well as to perform as a soloist and chamber musician.

Fine Arts Academy musicians have many opportunities to perform. The Orchestra receives support from the Austin Chamber Music Center, which provides weekly coaching for students in chamber ensembles. In addition, students work closely with the McCallum orchestra directors who visit often to clinic individuals and small groups.

Orchestra Classes

The following classes are available to Orchestra students:

  • Lamar Advanced Orchestra—Entry into this orchestra is by audition only. This ensemble serves as our Varsity Orchestra in all competitions and represents the Orchestra program at Lamar at all showcases and other Fine Arts academy events.
  • Lamar Intermediate Orchestra—This orchestra is made up of students with at least one year of playing experience. It is the Non-Varsity Orchestra at all competitions.
  • Lamar Beginning Orchestra— This orchestra is for beginners and no music experience is needed. This class provides the foundation for all of the other orchestras.
  • Fiddle Class/Rockestra-These semester long classes are designed to supplement the Intermediate or Advanced Orchestra and are open to violin, viola, cello and bass. The focus in each class will be alternative styles and students will have the opportunity to perform at more casual venues.

Requirements

  • Enrollment in one of the UIL Competing Orchestras each year
  • Participation in AISD Solo and Ensemble each year
  • Audition for Region Orchestra each Fall
  • Participation in the scheduled concerts and extra rehearsals
  • Enrollment in 2 semesters of Fiddle or Rockestra

Recommendations

  • Private lesson enrollment
  • Daily practice
  • Enrollment in other fine arts electives

Vocal Music

There are many opportunities to participate in vocal music at the Lamar Fine Arts Academy. The following courses are offered for vocal majors:

Advanced Boys Choir—“Top Dawgs”

The Top Dawgs are an audition-only group consisting of 7th and 8th grade boys, which will have a focus in repertoire, vocal and choral technique, while continuing their curriculum from the Beginning Choir. This group also participates in other “gigs” that surface throughout the year; i.e. Christmas caroling, local events, nursing homes, National Anthem performances for athletic events, etc. The students will perform in at least five scheduled concerts including the Fall Concert, Winter Concert, school assemblies, UIL, Disney Darlings, and sometimes combines with the Scottie Singers for a mixed choral sound. They also have the opportunity to participate in the All-City Choral Festival as well as a winter performance at Lamar’s feeder elementary schools.

Advanced Treble Choir—“Scottie Singers”

Scottie Singers consists of a select group of 7th and 8th grade girls selected through an audition process during the previous year. These students will work on advanced repertoire and choral technique. Scottie Singers will perform in at least five scheduled concerts including the fall concert, winter concert, school assemblies, UIL, and Disney Darlings. This group also participates in other “gigs” that surface throughout the year; i.e. local events, nursing homes, National Anthem performances for athletic events, etc. They also have the opportunity to participate in the All-City Choral Festival as well as a winter performance at Lamar’s feeder elementary schools.

Show Choir—“POP!”

POP! is Lamar’s audition-only Show Choir group composed of 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. This choir will perform popular musical selections that correspond with our concerts throughout the year. Auditions will take place at the beginning of the school year. These students will work on advanced repertoire and choral technique. POP! will perform in at least three scheduled concerts including the fall concert, winter concert, and Disney Darlings. Additional performances may arise throughout the year.

Holiday Caroling Group – “Vivace” ***Extracurricular. Not a course.***

Vivace is Lamar’s audition-only Holiday Caroling group composed of 7th and 8th graders. This choir will perform well-known Holiday Carols at several gigs during the Holiday Season such as The Arboretum, Texas Stars Hockey Game(s) and Zilker Park. Auditions will take place in October after school and rehearsals will be held on Wednesdays starting in November from 3:40-5pm. Students in this group will be required to provide their own transportation to gigs and events held outside school hours.

For more information, please contact the choir office (512) 841-5965, or visit our website

Requirements

  • Student must commit to participation in either the Top Dawgs or Scottie Singers ensemble for for the 7th and 8th grade.
  • Students are not required, but are strongly encouraged, to participate in additional choral ensembles such as POP! and/or Vivace.
  • Student must attend all rehearsals, including after school rehearsals.
  • Student must attend all concerts throughout the year.
  • Student must have displayed appropriate behavior for the entire year.
  • Student must match pitch.
  • Student must be an independent sight reader.
  • Student must show exemplary citizenship throughout the year. (i.e. no referrals, home suspension, or ALC)
  • Student must pass every six weeks in choir and maintain good grades in other classes.
  • Student must sing individually and independently in choir.
  • Students will be required to audition for All-Region Choir, as well perform a solo for the Solo & Ensemble Contest in the Spring.
  • Students must work with well with others.
  • Students must cooperate in rehearsals and concerts.
  • Student must maintain self-control in all rehearsals and concerts.

Theatre Arts

The Theatre at Lamar Fine Arts Academy is a 3-year high school preparatory program in the arts. We emphasize creating a well-rounded student artist who feels comfortable in their own skin, and has confidence in their creative abilities. The performance and problem solving skills students learn in theatre help them not only in the performance sphere but in every aspect of business, education, leadership, and community service. As Stella Adler once reflected, “The theatre was created to tell people the truth about life and the social situation.” The tools learned in theatre can help students change their world.

We produce at least two to three one-act main stage shows each year (from comedy to children’s theatre). These shows are supplemented by class-created performances of monologues and scenes to build their audition repertoire and experience level. The stage is our laboratory for students to practice the skills they learn in class every day and the results are outstanding!

Students enrolled in theatre generally take at least 2 field trips a semester to see live theatre at various venues including the Paramount Theatre, the Bass Concert Hall, and even the Renaissance Festival. Majors also have opportunities to see additional shows for free at the McCallum Fine Arts Academy. The University of Texas S.E.A.T. program also provides students some additional opportunities to experience live theatre with their teacher and parent chaperones on the UT campus.

Theatre Classes

The following courses are required Theater majors.

Performance:

  • Theatre 6th grade year-long
  • Theatre Production 7th8th grade

Expectations

All Theatre majors have a series of expectations they must meet to continue in the Fine Arts Academy:

  • Theatre majors are required to take one year of theatre their 6th grade year, and theatre production their 7th and 8th grade years.
  • Theatre majors are expected to have passing grades in all classes and a B+ average or higher in their theatre classes. The theatre department encourages students to take advantage of the many opportunities to get support in academics.
  • Other specific expectations are articulated in class syllabi, guidelines, and grading rubrics throughout the semester.

Visual Art

Requirements for an Academy Art Major

  • Year-long art each year
  • Participate in middle school Visual Arts Scholastic Event (Jr. VASE) each year.

The Lamar Fine Arts Academy offers a variety of art studies:

  • Semester Art for 6th, 7th and 8th grade
  • Year-long Art for 6th and 7th grade
  • Art 1 for high school credit for 8th grade
  • Students will be introduced to drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, mosaics and a many other areas of study.

Audition Information

“How-To”

Prepare for my Audition

Prepare my Art Portfolio for review

Register for a workshop

Fine Arts Academy important dates for applying for the 2012-2013school year are:

  • February 3rd for submitting Choice Sheet to counselor (remember to check the box on the choice sheet that indicates you are applying for the fine arts academy)
  • February 24th for submitting LMS FAA application (including copies of report card, standardized test results and 3 teacher recommendations)
  • March 9th for LMS FAA selection committee to contact qualified applicants to set an audition time
  • March 24 Auditions (morning audition slots from 8am - noon)
  • March 31 Auditions (afternoon audition slots from noon – 4pm)
  • April 5 for notifying students selected for admittance into the LMS FAA

A successful audition with the Fine Arts faculty is only one step in the process and does not constitute admittance.