The Fine Arts Academy of Guerin Prep is designed to provide students who have expressed a passion for the arts the opportunity to explore and develop their talents in the Instrumental, Theatrical, Visual
and Vocal Arts.

Fine Arts Academy students will participate in a distinct college-preparatory curriculum offering professional arts training. At Guerin Prep, art students acquire the skills and experiences as performers and creators of art needed to pursue further studies at the university level.

The Instrumental Program

Band, strings, orchestral, wind ensemble, guitar, and group piano classes. Students of all skill
levels are welcome, including beginners. Student musicians receive the resources required to
develop into serious artists. Access to visiting instructors and master classes expose students to
a wide range of teaching styles, methods, and skills. Pitch, rhythm, tone, intonation, and
technique are emphasized along with elements of good ensemble performance. Students may
perform solo, duet and ensemble work each semester, and everyone is enriched by the
collaborative experience. 
 

Theatrical Performance

Our drama classes focus on key areas such as the development of the actor’s instrument,
collaborative creation of original work, text analysis, scene work, and improvisation. Students
study and perform a broad range of theatrical literature. Actors have both formal and informal
opportunities to perform in class and our annual full stage production.
 

Visual Arts

Serving a broad spectrum of students, the visual arts program stresses creativity, production,
and relationships to both the arts community and the broader world.
Beginning-level courses are designed to develop the creativity of the student and are
challenging within a relaxed atmosphere that is open to experimentation.
As a student progresses through the visual arts, classes become more rigorous. Concept
formation and skills development are supported by a curriculum that builds on the student’s
personal strengths. Students’ lives are enhanced through artistic development and
appreciation. We are also committed to preparing dedicated art students for challenging
opportunities at nationally recognized art schools.
Every year, students have meaningful dialogue with visiting artists and teachers and enjoy field
trips to the wonderful art museums of Chicago area. Our students participate in various art
contests and shows throughout the year.
 

Vocal Performance

Vocal Performance students dive into the fundamental elements of music, such as theory,
musicianship, history, diction, and piano, as well as classes focused on solo and ensemble
singing, such as musical theatre, opera scenes, choral ensembles, and classic voice. Students
participate in unique and exciting performance opportunities, such as concerts, opera scenes,
and musical productions.
Our vocal performance program offers singing opportunities to students of all levels. Ensembles
rehearse during the school day. Courses in theory and ear training provide fundamental
knowledge on which to build a repertoire, and private voice lessons are available. Students
study theory, acting, conducting and keyboarding. Students are also encouraged to develop as
solo artists, with numerous performance opportunities, on and off-campus.