PROGRAMS
Visual Arts
Our visual arts program, which begins in 7th grade, incorporates art history with studio techniques to develop a well-rounded appreciation and grasp of visual history and technique. In grades 9-12, our program places increased emphasis on visual theory and design principles. The culmination of the visual arts education at Mt. Alvernia is the Senior Art Thesis- a project required for graduation that demonstrates our students’ command of design principles and visual theory.Fine Arts Department
The Art Club, which meets weekly, is open to all students in grades 7 to 12. Many students use this time to pursue their own interests or to prepare a portfolio. Students have the opportunity to explore various art media such as oils, watercolors, and pastels, ceramics, stained glass, and printmaking.
Ninth grade students visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum as part of a joint art and history project on the Renaissance. Students are also encouraged to explore the great works of art in the Museum of Fine Arts and Harvard Museums (Fogg, Sackler, Peabody, and Busch Reisinger).
Chorus & Choir
The Chorus and Choir meet weekly and are both are open to students in grades 7 through 12. The choir serves as the leader of song, and all members of the Mount Alvernia community participate. In planning liturgies and prayer services, special attention is given to music. The Chorus, our secular music group, performs twice a year at Christmas and spring. The Chorus musical selections range from Broadway a show tunes to popular music.Drama & Theater
The drama program at Mount Alvernia, open to students in grades 7 to 12, begins with a workshop giving students the opportunity to explore theater without having to make a commitment to a production. The workshop covers a range of dramatic expression, including mime, improvisation, sensory awareness, and articulation drills. Participants discuss acting techniques, stage terms, backstage positions, and character development. Student directors, with input from workshop members, choose the play to be performed in the annual production and hold auditions. Besides acting roles, participants have the opportunity to work backstage on props, costumes, sound, lighting, and set design.
Every year faculty and students attend student performances of local theatre productions. Theatre companies may perform at the school or members of the school community may travel to the theatre. Mount Alvernia has had an ongoing relationship with the New Repertory Theatre, Shakespeare Now and the Huntington Theatre.
Faculty and students have attended Boston Lyric Opera Company performances , using the opera company's study guides to become acquainted with this art form. The Barber of Seville, Tosca, La Traviata, The Marriage of Figaro, and Carmen are some of the productions we have enjoyed the production of.
