Performing & Related Arts
South Side Performing and Related Arts offers students of all experience levels the chance to grow, create and express themselves. Through music, movement and visual art, students build essential life skills while making connections across academic areas. Programs include band, choir, dance, orchestra, theatre, as well as visual arts such as drawing, painting and sculpture.
Choir
Beginning Chorus
Open to freshmen and new upperclassmen. Students focus on vocal technique, ensemble singing and music literacy while performing in quarterly concerts.
Intermediate Chorus
Open to continuing choir students or new students by audition or recommendation. Builds on the skills developed in Beginning Chorus. Students perform in quarterly concerts, participate in the South Side Arts Festival and compete in the ISSMA Organizational Contest each spring.
Advanced Choir (Chamber Choir)
Audition-based ensemble performing advanced and varied choral literature. Students perform in quarterly concerts and the South Side Arts Festival while participating in ISSMA competitions including Solo & Ensemble, Jazz Choir and organizational events.
Show Choir – Sound Waves
A performance-based ensemble that combines singing and choreography. Students perform advanced choral literature, compete in winter show choir competitions and perform in multiple concerts each year. Rehearsals take place twice weekly after school and require a significant time and financial commitment.
South Side High School’s choir program provides students with a strong foundation in choral music while building confidence, musicianship and performance skills. Students study and perform a wide range of choral repertoire while developing vocal technique and musical literacy. Performances throughout the year give singers opportunities to showcase their growth and connect with the community.
Performances & Events
Students perform throughout the year in concerts, festivals and competitions, including:
- Quarterly Choir Concerts
- Show Choir Competitions
- ISSMA Solo & Ensemble, Jazz Choir and Organizational Events
- South Side Arts Festival
Dance
Dance I (Beginning Dance)
An introduction to basic dance concepts, movement and vocabulary through ballet, jazz, modern and yoga practice.
Dance II (Continuing Dance)
Continued study of dance technique and musical structure through ballet, modern, jazz and yoga practice.
Dance III (Trainee Level)
Advanced technique development with an emphasis on mind and body wellness through ballet, jazz, modern, tap and yoga practice. Performance opportunities are emphasized.
Dance IV (Advanced/Touring Level)
Advanced study focusing on culture, creativity and performance through ballet, jazz, modern, tap and hip-hop styles. Students explore choreography, creativity and performance at a higher level.
Instrumental Music
Jazz Band
Ensemble for grades 9–12. Admission by audition.
Concert Bands
Level 1 Ensemble – Grades 9–12, no audition required
Level 2 Ensemble – Grades 9–12, admission by audition or recommendation
Level 2 Ensemble – Grades 9–12, admission by audition or recommendation
String Orchestras
Level 1 Ensemble – Grades 9–12, no audition required
Level 2 Ensemble – Grades 9–12, admission by audition or recommendation
Marching Band
South Side students participate in marching band in partnership with Wayne High School.
South Side High School offers a challenging and rewarding experience for student musicians under the guidance of local pianist and saxophonist Gabriel Fenoglio. Built on a strong tradition of excellence, the program continues a musical pathway many students begin at Memorial Park Middle School.
Students develop their skills through a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes technique, performance, listening skills, music theory and improvisation. Archer musicians have opportunities to grow both individually and as part of ensembles while performing throughout the school year.
Performances & Events
Students perform throughout the year in a variety of concerts and events, including:
- Winter Concert
- Jazz Concert
- Spring Concert
- ISSMA High School Organization Event
- FWCS Solo & Ensemble Showcase
- Purdue Fort Wayne Band Events
Intro to 2D Art/Intro to 3D Art
Beginning-level courses where students learn the elements of art and explore the creative process. 2D Art focuses on the design and creation of flat images, while 3D Art introduces students to sculptural and three-dimensional work.
Drawing 1, 2 & 3
Beginning, intermediate and advanced courses that explore a variety of drawing techniques. Students develop observational skills and create original artwork.
Painting 1 & 2
Courses focused on painting techniques, color theory and composition. Students experiment with different styles and mediums while creating original works.
Ceramics 1, 2 & 3
A sequence of courses that introduces and develops skills in clay and ceramic processes. Students create functional and artistic pieces while exploring various techniques.
Sculpture
A continuation of three-dimensional exploration from Intro to 3D Art. Students experiment with materials and methods to create dynamic sculptural works.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Art
An advanced course for students seeking in-depth study and portfolio development in visual arts as part of the IB program.
South Side High School’s visual arts program encourages creativity, exploration and artistic growth across a variety of mediums. Students build foundational skills while developing their own artistic voice through hands-on experiences in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional art forms.
