October 5, 2003
CANTERBURY HIGH SCHOOL, OTTAWA-CARLETON DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
| Arts Canterbury | |
| Academic Information | |
| Dance | |
| Drama | |
| Literary Arts | |
| Music (Instrumental or Vocal) | |
| Visual Arts | |
| Arts Education | |
| How To Apply | |
| Application Deadline | |
| Contact Information |
A programme designed for students who wish to explore their full creative potential.
A Programme of the Arts
Arts Canterbury is a specialized programme of the arts available to high school students from all over Eastern Ontario. Established in 1983 at Canterbury High School by the former Ottawa Board of Education, it is now part of the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. Entry to the Arts Canterbury Programme is by audition only.
The Arts Canterbury programme offers students the opportunity to fulfil their high school graduation requirements while studying one of these five Arts disciplines:
Dance, Drama, Literary Arts, Music (Instrumental or Vocal), and Visual Arts.
Our goal is to nurture excellence in Arts Canterbury students by challenging them with the best of both the academic and artistic worlds, to help them become well-rounded individuals who care and understand about all aspects of the world around them.
TRULY A CHALLENGE
Arts Canterbury is both an adjunct and an enhancement to a full course of academic study that challenges talented young people to find new relevance in their academics; to truly experience and apply their education in the here-and-now.
It nurtures tolerance of others' differences and respect for others' achievements. It promotes personal development through creativity.
The programme works by developing:HOW DOES IT WORK?
Canterbury High School provides a full range of academic programmes, including an Extended French programme.
Students in the four year Arts Canterbury programme receive daily instruction in their particular arts discipline, in addition to a full academic load. Canterbury is a semestered high school, except in the Arts Programme courses which run for the full year.
Visiting professional artists, field trips and performances are an important part of all Arts Canterbury programmes.
Students who successfully complete the Arts Canterbury Programme receive a Fine Arts Certificate.
OUR STANDARDS
All Arts Canterbury students are expected to take a full academic programme, in addition to their arts programme, and to maintain high levels of achievement in all areas, excellent attendance and good citizenship qualities.
Canterbury H.S. has an excellent academic reputation. For further information on student achievement, please visit our website at www.ocdsb.edu.on.ca/cantweb.
Attendance at rehearsals and performances which might occur out of class time is considered an integral part of the student's curriculum.
Arts Canterbury students must maintain the established standards each year to remain in the programme.
AFTER GRADUATION
Approximately 85-90% of Arts Canterbury graduates go on to post-secondary studies. 40% of these graduates continue their arts studies and 60% of these graduates pursue other studies.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
There is an active and varied extra-curricular programme at Canterbury. Activities and clubs include many different sports programmes, environmental groups, social awareness groups, computer clubs, school and literary newspapers, the library club, various choirs and bands (by audition only), school plays, student performances assemblies, Arts Festival, coffee houses etc. etc.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Arts Canterbury is an upgraded programme. There are financial implications to delivering this quality programme which go beyond the regular school operations budget. Parents will be invited to support this programme of choice. Please contact the Arts Coordinator for specific information. Canterbury is supported by C.A.C.D.A. (Canterbury Arts Centre Development Association), a fundraising group dedicated to ensuring equal access to the Arts Programme. For further information about C.A.C.D.A., please call the school for contact information.
TRANSPORTATION
For current information regarding transportation, please contact the Transportation Department of the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board or speak to a Vice-Principal at the school.
SCHOOL COUNCIL
Canterbury High School has an extremely active School Council. It is an important part of life at Canterbury, as well as being involved in local and provincial issues.
The School Council is open to everyone and all parents and guardians are encouraged to participate. For further information, the School Council’s e-mail address is chsc@canterburycouncil.org
FACILITIESCanterbury High School is totally accessible for the physically challenged and has support services available.
LEARNING SUPPORT
Canterbury has a Special Education Department that includes both Learning Support teachers and Physical Support Unit teachers (Orthopaedic Unit).
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
All Arts Canterbury students are expected to take a full academic programme, in addition to their arts programme, and to maintain high levels of achievement in all areas, excellent attendance and good citizenship qualities.
ARTS
Single credit arts courses are offered, at different levels, in Dance, Drama, Music, Literary Arts (see English) and Visual Arts. These are open to everyone and provide students with opportunities to develop their potential in more than one Arts area.
BUSINESS STUDIES
The Business Studies Department offers a wide selection of courses. General interest courses include Canadian Law, Business English and Computer Skills. Career-related and skill subjects include Accounting, Entrepreneurship, and Information Technology.
ENGLISH
The English Department offers a challenging program that recognizes the central importance of language and literature in learning and everyday life. The courses prepare students for the literacy demands they will face as citizens of Canada and the global community. The program offers a wide variety of courses designed to encourage students' lifelong love of reading and writing. In addition to the compulsory English courses, we offer courses in Canadian Literature, Media Studies, Dramaturgy and Writing.
MATHEMATICS
A full range of Mathematics courses is offered at all levels. Courses at the senior level include Discrete, Calculus and Data Management. Enrichment in Mathematics is provided through participation in Math contests.
MODERN LANGUAGES
(French, Spanish)
The Modern Language programmes are designed to develop communication skills of the chosen language. Listening, speaking, reading and writing skills are gradually developed through the interaction of speaker and listener, writer and reader.
FRENCH
Core French Programme
French courses are offered at all levels of difficulty. Some courses prepare students for university entrance, while other courses are considered appropriate preparation for employment or further education other than university.
Extended French Programme
This programme is intended for students who have a French Immersion background or equivalent studies. Students who choose this programme can accumulate eight (8) credits taught in the French language. Students study the French language and the Social Sciences as part of the Extended French Programme.
An Extended French Bilingual Certificate will be granted to students who successfully complete seven credits in this programme.
SPANISH
This programme is designed to develop the student's ability to understand and use the Spanish language in a variety of contexts.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The Physical Education Department offers the following programmes: a classroom programme to teach basic skills; an intramural programme which takes place during the lunch period and allows students to enjoy a variety of physical activities; and an interscholastic programme which takes place after school and allows athletes to compete at a high skill level. All Canterbury High School students are invited to participate in these programmes. Outdoor Education, which stresses a number of trips outdoors, is also offered by the Physical Education Department.
SCIENCE
The Science Department offers a wide variety of courses in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and General Science at all levels. The philosophy of the department is to stress the acquisition of basic science skills through application; all courses have an extensive lab component in addition to a solid foundation in theory. The Science Department sponsors a number of national contests for students looking to enrich their scientific education.
SOCIAL SCIENCES
Canterbury's Social Science Department spans two broad categories: "Canadian and World Studies" and "Social Sciences and Humanities". Courses in these areas include 20th c. Canadian History, Civics, World Civilizations, the West and the World, Geography, Travel and Tourism, Canadian and World Issues, Law, Economics, Intro. to Psychology, Sociology and Anthropology, World Religions and Individual Families in a Diverse Society. Extended French program courses in Geographie and Histoire are offered in grades 9, 10 and 11.
STUDENT SERVICES
The Student Services Department at Canterbury is dedicated to helping young people better understand their educational opportunities, explore career alternatives, know and appreciate themselves, and relate effectively with others. Information is provided to students on their courses of study to help ensure the best possible preparation for university, college or the world of work. Counseling is available for personal concerns, as well as referrals to other professionals and outside agencies.
TECHNICAL STUDIES
The Department of Technological Studies offers a variety of opportunities for all students. Courses, such as Design and Technology, offer students the chance to develop their special interests and skills. The Communications Technology course offers students a unique opportunity to produce and explore contemporary audio-visual techniques, such as video and computer-generated graphics.
Learning to walk sets you free, learning to dance gives you the greatest freedom of all: to express with your whole self the person you are. Melissa Hayden
Programme Details
The Dance Programme focuses on technical development in both Ballet and Modern Dance, and in developing the student’s choreographic abilities.
A variety of skills and concepts are developed over the course of the programme: training and refinement of technique, understanding of body alignment, the elements of dance, choreography and composition, development of performance skills, health and safety issues, the role and history of dance in various cultures, and development of aesthetic consciousness.
Performance and choreography are key components in the senior years.
DANCE AUDITIONS
The audition process for admission inot the Dance Programme consists of the following:
THE AUDITION
Attendance at both the following classes is compulsory.
1. DANCE CLASS
Students participate in a 2-hour group dance class. Students are evaluated on their flexibility, musicality and technique. This class also helps familiarize students with the types of movements used in the second part of the audition.
2. SECOND CLASS
A second class (2 hours), which includes an individual interview with the audition panel to discuss the student's background in Dance, his/her academic standing, the reasons for entering the programme and commitment to the discipline.
At, or before this interview, the school must have:
1. a copy of the student’s most recent report card
2. a reference from the student's Dance or Physical Education teacher
3. the School Appraisal form
In both classes, the auditioning students will be led through a series of movements and exercises by a teacher, as the audition panel judges them for ability and potential. In particular, students will be evaluated on the following criteria:
1. kinetic awarenessIn everyday life, "if" is a fiction…in the theatre, "if" is the truth. When we are persuaded to believe in this truth, then the theatre and life are one.
Peter Brook, The Empty SpaceProgramme Details
Students in the Drama programme work to develop communication skills, leadership and an increased understanding of themselves.
Students participate in a variety of acting and theatrical activities over the course of the programme: theatre games, creative movement, voice and speech, improvisation, mime, acting techniques and analysis, mask, children’s theatre, television acting, clowning, directing scenes, technical theatre and design, scriptwriting, theatre history, and the business of theatre.
Scene work gives students experience in developing character and working with the fundamental elements of theatre.
Over the course of four years, Drama students progress from developing products communally in Grades 9 and 10 to taking ownership of their own artistic accomplishments in Grades 11 and 12.
DRAMA AUDITIONS
The audition process for admission into the Drama Programme consists of the following:
THE AUDITION
1. GROUP CLASS
A group class (1 1/2 hours) which may be held on a Saturday.
Since a large portion of the Drama programme consists of group work, this part of the audition permits the audition panel to view the students' ability to interact with one another.
The group audition will include a movement session, theatre games and group improvisation. Attendance at this compulsory group audition helps students to become more aware of what is expected at their individual audition.
2. INDIVIDUAL AUDITION
The individual audition (20 minutes) will consist of the following 3 parts:The candidate will be asked to improvise a scene based upon an idea provided by the panel. The length of the improvisation may be from one to three minutes. The audition panel will end each improvisation when appropriate.
C. INTERVIEWDuring the interview, the panel will determine the student's background in Drama, his/ her academic standing, the reasons for entering the programme and commitment to the discipline.
At, or before this interview, the school must have:
Natalie Goldberg, Wild Mind
Programme Details
The Literary Arts programme is for students who love to write and who wish to study in a community of young writers and other artists. Each student will seek out a distinctive voice as a writer, and will develop the habits, skills and knowledge that make writing an effective, creative and purposeful mode of communication.
The main focus of the Literary Arts programme is creative writing, and includes studying the forms and techniques of story-telling, poetry, non-fiction and script writing.
Literary Arts students will have opportunities to collaborate with students in the other arts areas in creative productions as well as exploring specialization and independent projects. They will benefit from the experience of professional writers who frequently come to the school for readings and writing discussions.
They will also participate in public readings and workshops, enter writing competitions and seek to have their work published.
LITERARY ARTS AUDITION
The audition process for admission into the Literary Arts protramme consists of the following:
THE AUDITION
1. PORTFOLIO
Submission of a portfolio of writing at least five working days before the individual audition. Late and /or handwritten portfolios will NOT be read.
The portfolio must contain the following:The portfolio may contain one or two additional pieces as illustrations of the candidate's special interest or skill in writing.
The items in the portfolio should be clearly labelled, typed, double spaced and written on one side of the page only. Handwritten portfolios will NOT be read.
The portfolio MUST be accompanied by a folder of rough drafts that show the editing and revision that went into the production of the items in the portfolio. Students working on the computer should print out their drafts as they work.
2. WORKSHOP
Participation in a writing workshop (2 hours) before the individual interview.
3. INTERVIEW
An individual interview with the audition panel to discuss the portfolio, the student's academic standing, commitment to writing and expectations of the programme.
At, or before this interview, the school must have:MUSIC
Music gives soul to the universe and wings to the mind.
PlatoINSTRUMENTAL & VOCAL PROGRAMME DETAILS
Music students specialize in either the Instrumental Music Programme (winds, strings or percussion) or the Vocal Music Programme In either specialization, the programme covers two main areas:
Performance: An in-depth study of a major instrument (winds, strings, percussion or voice) and the development of keyboard skills.
Non-performance: An in-depth study of various aspects of music such as theory (up to Royal Conservatory GR II) and harmony (up to Royal Conservatory GR III), composition (traditional and contemporary), Music history (composers, styles, compositions), ear training and sight reading.
An independent study programme is offered in the senior grades to allow students to pursue individual areas of interest. NOTE: guitar and piano are NOT offered as speciality instruments.
MUSIC AUDITION
The audition process for admission into the Music programme consists of the following:
INSTRUMENTAL AUDITION:2. INDIVIDUAL AUDITION
An individual audition (20 minutes) consisting of the following:Percussion students must be able to perform the scales on a keyboard (i.e. xylophone) with mallets.
2. Sight-reading at an appropriate level.
3. An assessment of basic musicality, including ear training and theoretical knowledge.
4. An interview to discuss the student's background in Instrumental Music, his/her academic standing, reasons for entering the programme, and commitment to the discipline.
At, or before this interview, the school must have:
VOCAL AUDITION:
1. WORKSHOP
A pre-audition orientation workshop (1 hour) which helps the students prepare for the performance audition.
2. INDIVIDUAL AUDITION
An individual audition (20 minutes) consisting of:
1. The performance of a prepared, MEMORIZED piece (maximum three minutes) of the candidate's own choice, which best demonstrates the range and quality of the voice. Simplicity is the best policy. The applicant should bring a copy of the music for the audition panel and sheet music for accompaniment. An accompanist may be provided. Use of a back-up tape (without any vocals) is also acceptable.
2. An assessment of basic musicality including ear training and theoretical knowledge. The candidate MUST be able to read basic musical notation, i.e. students should know the names of the notes on both the treble and bass clef staves.
3. An interview to determine the student's background in Vocal Music, his/her academic standing, reasons for entering the programme, and commitment to the discipline.
The whole of human experience becomes the artist's model, and in that sense, it can be said that all of art is a portrait of an idea.
Visual Arts Programme
The Visual Arts Programme develops the student's problem-solving skills and creative ability using a wide range of media over the four years as each student prepares for University or College study.
The philosophy of the art programme is to introduce students to as many facets of art as possible, while maintaining regard for the individual student's aptitudes.
Disciplines include drawing (creative and from observation), painting (tempera, watercolour and acrylics), photography (traditional and digital), printmaking (relief and intaglio), ceramics, sculpture, design and art history.
VISUAL ARTS AUDITION
The audition process for admission into the Visual Arts programme consists of the following:
THE AUDITION
1. WORKSHOP
A group life-drawing workshop (1 1/2 hours) held prior to the individual audition. The life drawings produced at this time must be presented as part of the student's portfolio at the individual audition.
2. INDIVIDUAL AUDITION
An individual audition (20 minutes) which consists of:
a) PORTFOLIO
Presentation of a personal portfolio which must include the following pieces:
1. Natural form study drawing using pencil. Composition should include four natural form objects, e.g., fruit or vegetables arranged in front of a draped background. Objects should overlap creating an interesting composition and showing an understanding of form and tone. Rendering of this drawing will require a minimum of two hour's work and should measure at least 40 cm. x 50 cm.
2. Natural form study in colour. Four organic objects, e.g., fruit or vegetables etc. are to be arranged in front of a draped background and rendered in a medium of the candidate's choice. Please use a different arrangement from the pencil drawing done in #1. This work should reflect a minimum of two hour's work and should measure at least 40 cm. x 50 cm.
3. Self-portrait - Life size. To be done from observation using a mirror and lighting the face from one side. The medium is the candidate's choice.
4. 3D work. A sculptural piece in any material, e.g., clay, papier-mache, wire, paper sculpture, woodwork or fabric work.
5. Sketchbook/Resource book. Include sketches, photographs, imaginative drawings, notes and design work.
6. Five works of the candidate's choice. Work which reflects the candidate's imagination and creativity.
7. Major works from school. Candidate may include Gr. 7 and Gr. 8 art work. Creative projects from academic subjects (e.g., illustrations) may be included if the candidate has not had an opportunity to take art at school.
8. All life drawings produced in the group workshop.
N.B. Photographs may substituted for works too large to transport.
b) INTERVIEW
An interview with the audition panel to discuss the student's background in Visual Arts, his/her academic standing, the reasons for entering the programme, commitment to the discipline and artistic potential.
At, or before this interview, the school must have:
"Studying the arts will develop skills that can help you in any career."
Warren Goldring, CEO and Chairman, AGF Management
"I've spent the best years of my life at Canterbury. I came into the school shy, scared and nervous and now I'm leaving more sure of myself. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to take music and grow and learn within it. I made fabulous friends here and have amazing memories. I couldn't have imagined going to school anywhere else!"
Music Program graduate accepted into the Music Program at Mt. Allison University
"I was in the Drama program and I learned much more than simply acting skills: I learned great time management, communication and responsibility. The best thing I got out of Canterbury is how much more self-assured, confident and comfortable I am with myself than when I started high school."
Drama Program graduate accepted into Business (Marketing) Program at Ottawa University
"Over the past four years, this school has shaped me in ways you couldn't imagine. The students and the teachers are all great! I have never been in a school where everyone seemed to get along and everyone respected each other. The dance teachers were amazing and the dancers in my class became my second family. I loved my time here and I will miss walking down our artwork hallways."
Dance Program graduate accepted into Human Kinetics Program at Ottawa University
"The best part of going to Canterbury was the atmosphere. High school takes a person through the years that define them and being in an open and accepting environment allows for great self-understanding. Canterbury provided an ideal environment for this to occur and for that I'm thankful."
Visual Arts Program graduate accepted into Biology Program at Redeemer University
"My time in the Literary Arts program provided me with an opportunity I might not otherwise have had to develop my skills as a writer. The program also provided me with the skill and confidence to pursue my love of writing throughout high school and into university. The supportive, artistic and diverse atmosphere embraced by students and teachers has allowed me to gain confidence and pursue artistic freedom."
Literary Arts Program _graduate accepted into Creative Writing and English Programs at Ottawa University, Carleton University, Windsor University, York University, Brock University, Toronto University and Concordia University.
"Canterbury has been for me a haven where I have been able to pursue dance to an extent that would not have been attainable elsewhere. It has truly given me a love for this art and an utmost respect for all other art forms. The school offers a balance and unique lifestyle."
Dance Program graduate accepted into the Physical Engineering Program at Carleton University
"The Music program has helped me so much in my development as a musician and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to grow as an artist in such an encouraging and non-threatening atmosphere as Canterbury."
Music Program graduate accepted into the Management Program at the University of Toronto
"Canterbury has kept me from dropping out of school and given me the self respect to continue life with pride. Theatre has helped me think on my feet and outside of the box. I have a great respect for the arts. Drama gave me a family to rely on and love."
Drama Program graduate planning to work in Theatre and Stage Carpentry
"Canterbury has given me strength to do what I like and to be myself no matter where I am. I have learned to be a leader and the responsibilities that come with the job. I feel that, because of the amount of student-run programs, I have learned to be independent and self-reliant."
Music Program graduate accepted into the Sports Management Program at Brock University
"This school has exposed me to some of the most unique, insightful, open-minded, friendly and creative people that I have ever met. Because of Canterbury's accepting and non-judgmental atmosphere, I will leave the school with an appreciation for diversity and the more important values of life."
Literary Arts Program graduate accepted into Creative Writing Program at the University of Victoria
"Canterbury High School has taught me that academic and artistic subjects can be taught simultaneously and are very complementary. I've learned to express myself and have benefited from a rich environment containing many open minds."
Dance Program graduate accepted into the Environmental Studies Program at the University of Ottawa
"Canterbury has definitely fine-tuned my artistic ability to pursue a career in an art field. Canterbury has boosted my confidence and helped me take chances when dealing with people. I have had the opportunity to participate in many events. Canterbury has helped shape me into who I am now."
Visual Arts Program graduate accepted into the Graphic Design Program at Algonquin College
"Canterbury was a wonderfully freeing experience. The Drama program taught me a lot about how to analyze a situation, how to work as a team and the hierarchy of the theatre world. Canterbury has been such a supportive environment and the teachers and people in it have made it that much more special."
Drama Program graduate heading into the world of work
"I am now more sociable and have learned the essential skills to communicate with all types of people. I have built valuable relationships and developed a deep appreciation for the arts. I've learned how much the arts are needed and I'm happy to be continuing on."
Drama Program graduate accepted into the Radio and Television Arts Program at Ryerson University
HOW TO APPLY
The application form may be printed from the link on this website.
The application form should be filled out and sent to the Arts Co-ordinator at Canterbury High School. No other documentation is required with the application form.
Students may audition in ONE arts area only.
Auditions are held annually in February for entry the following September.
Applications for the February auditions must be received at Canterbury by January 26 to allow time for packages of audition information to be sent to candidates.
Audition space is granted on a first-come, first-served basis, therefore, early application (e.g., November/December) is strongly advised.Applicants will be informed by mail to the home address of the specific audition times and requirements.
All applicants will be advised by mail of the results of their audition. The results will not be mailed until ALL auditions are over. Processing of audition results can take until April to complete.
Students successful in the audition process are automatically admitted to Canterbury H.S. and do not require a cross-boundary transfer.
AUDITION INFORMATION: Students are only admitted into the Arts Canterbury programme upon completion of the following:
– a successful audition (see individual discipline requirements)
– recommendations from their school and arts teacher
– regular grade eight graduation requirements
Admissions to the programme at any level other than Grade 9 will be decided by the audition panel on an individual basis.
Students from all Ontario Boards of Education may audition.
The decision of the audition panel is final.
Exploration Through the Arts
Through the Arts, students are able to feel emotions and live experiences in a safe, unthreatening way; they are able to consider ideas and values without necessarily adopting them.
In this way, the Arts not only promote creativity and intellectual growth but contribute significantly to a student’s moral development.
Various issues, concepts and attitudes current in contemporary society will often be examined in this process.
Some may take offence at the consideration of such issues; Canterbury High School neither advocates nor condones them, but believes that students must be free to explore them.
Canterbury High School is totally accessible for the physically challenged and has support and therapy services available.