Fine Arts Department

Music

Glorifying God through music is important for every student at ICHS.   In Genesis 1:28 we are commanded to subdue the Earth.  This implies that all areas of human endeavor should come under Christ?s domination.  Students who attend Illiana should see the glory of God in the Arts as well as all other areas of the curriculum.  Students should see their talents as gifts of God, to be used for his glory, not just for entertainment, self-gratification, or any other reason.

The curriculum in the Music Department is designed to help the students become the musicians God intends them to be.  Students will be given skills of musicianship, vocal and instrumental technique, and interpretation to glorify God throughout their adult life, thus enriching the Christian community. 

In the Music Department, individual skills are augmented with group dynamics.  The bands and choirs are specialized communities within the Christian academic community.  Students will be taught to have a responsible attitude toward other musicians, contributing their own talents to the good of the group.  This includes musicianship, behavior towards others, a sense of responsibility toward the group and its objectives, and faithful attendance at all concerts.

Graduation requirements: Band or Choir (one year) or Art (one semester)

When a student is in both band and choir during the same year, he shall receive full credit for both but only one credit per year shall be counted toward the 24 credits needed for graduation.

Visual Art

Art is one of man's responses to God, our Creator.  He has made us in His image and has given us the ability to be creative.  While we can never do what He has done, create something from nothing, we can use our creative abilities to express in a unique way our response to Him and His world.  Art is a religious, cultural, social, and, sometimes, even beautiful expression of life in a particular place and time.

Art classes offer the student the opportunity to observe his/her surroundings in a new light; to apply problem-solving skills to the assignments; to discover new skills; and to communicate with others in a visual mode.  Art becomes a visual language by which one can give expression to experience, beliefs, purposes, and emotions.  While many students discover existing talents, or discover new ones, others may simply find a deeper appreciation for, and understanding of, art.  In either case, it is a valuable part of an education to have some experience in the arts.

The art curriculum is formulated to give all students an opportunity to excel.  The in-class projects are as varied as possible with the objective being that something will appeal to everyone.  Written homework assignments and sketchbook assignments are given to aid comprehension of the concepts and skills discussed in class.