Visual and Performing Arts Academy
Sa le m H igh School
V irginia Beach City Public Schools
Welcome to the Visual & Performing Arts Academy
Mission
Excellence through diverse experiences in the arts.
Introduction
The Visual and Performing Arts Academy at Salem High School
offers students an in-depth exposure to the Arts through a
rigorous, challenging curriculum. This environment provides the
skills necessary for success in higher education and the
workplace through a comprehensive, hands-on focus in each
course of study.
The Academy consists of six strands: Dance, Instrumental Music,
Theatre, Visual Arts, Vocal Music, and Mixed Arts. While most
students ultimately select one strand as their concentration
area, they are encouraged to explore areas outside of their
selected strand.
Curriculum includes instruction in performance, exhibition,
theory, and history in the arts. Master classes and performances
are also offered throughout the year.
Matthew Delaney
Principal
1993 SunDevil Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Phone: (757) 648-5650 Fax: (757) 474-0100
www.salemhs.vbschools.com
Christopher Buhner
Academy Coordinator
Admission to the program will be based on several criteria: an
audition/portfolio evaluation, recommendations by core subject
teachers, as well as, teachers in the arts, and achievement as
evidenced by honors or awards in the arts and participation in
extracurricular and community activities.
Programs/Strands We Offer
Dance
Our Award Winning Faculty
Katherine Flint - Dance*
Lee Knight - Dance
Frank Garcia – Instrumental Music*
Rick Kalinauskas – Music Theory & Instrumental Music
Brian Webb - Music Theory & Humanities
Sharon Byrd - Theatre*
Christa Vogt - Theatre
Jared Boone – Visual Arts
Erin Richburg – Visual Arts*
Melissa Schappell – Visual Arts
Lynne German - Piano & Humanities
Dr. Don Krudop - Vocal Music*
*Lead Strand Teacher
The Dance program is designed for serious performers who are dedicated to
improving their craft through a balanced approach to instruction in
performance, choreography, and critique. Students will be afforded the
opportunity to participate in field trips to view local professional dance
performances, Master Classes with guest artists, and a variety of workshops.
Performances are an integral part of the program and will provide the
student with an outlet for showcasing the development of their talents and
abilities.
Music
The Music strand of the Visual and Performing Arts Academy is comprised of
two sub-strands: one vocal and one instrumental which include both band
and orchestra. Students will be offered performance and classroom
opportunities not typically offered at the high school level. In addition to
participation in a required ensemble within the strand, students may select
from a wide variety of choral and instrumental ensembles.
Theatre
The VPAA Theatre program is designed for students who are serious about
the study of acting. The program provides coursework taught by a faculty of
teaching artists who are dedicated to a high standard of excellence and
integrity in the acting profession and which exceeds state and national
theatre standards. Through rigorous actor training, and regularly scheduled
professional guest workshops and seminars, students will develop the skills
and techniques necessary for success in the university, conservatory, or
professional theatre setting.
Visual Arts
The Visual Arts program is designed for talented high school students who
have the dedication and enthusiasm to pursue an intense and structured
study in visual arts. The program offers a curriculum that will guide the
student toward the development of skills, concepts, and imaginative
exploration in a wide variety of media and techniques. Students experience
courses in drawing, painting, digital graphic design, photographic multimedia imaging, ceramics, sculpture, digital imaging, metalsmithing,
architecture, product design and production, and animation.
Mixed Arts
This strand is designed to allow students who are accepted into more
than one area of study an opportunity to practice both strands during
their high school career. A student must pick a major by the end of
his or her sophomore year and ensure that he or she completes the
required minor and exploratory credits in order to graduate from the
academy.
Curriculum Offerings
All Strands
Dance
Theatre
Instrumental
Visual Arts
Vocal
Global Perspectives & Senior Production Project
Ballet Technique I, II, III, & IV,
Modern Technique I, II, III, & IV, World Dance, Dance
Composition, and Dance Senior Seminar
Acting I, Acting II, Technical Theatre, Acting III,
Musical Theatre, Direction and Production, and
Theatre Senior Seminar
Concert Ensemble, Philharmonic Symphony,
Camerata Symphony, Comprehensive Musicianship I,
Comprehensive Musicianship II, Conducting & Score
Study, Class Piano I & II, AP Music Theory, and
Instrumental Senior Seminar
Visual Thinking through Art Making, Drawing,
Metalsmithing, Ceramics, Painting, Architecture,
Digital Imaging Printmaking, Sculpture, Product
Design & Production, Graphic Design, Photography,
Animation, Visual Arts Senior Seminar, AP Studio, AP
Art History, and TCC Drawing I & II
Academy Choral Ensemble, Cantaré, Vox Concordia,
Vox Harmonia, Comprehensive Musicianship I,
Comprehensive Musicianship II, Conducting & Score
Study, Class Piano I & II, AP Music Theory, and Vocal
Senior Seminar
How do I Apply for VPAA?
Step 1
Access the On-line Application at the VBCPS web site
www.vbschools.com. If you are not currently a VBCPS student, visit
www.vbschools.com for a printable application.
Step 2
Complete the application on-line, indicating the art area(s) in which
you are interested in auditioning. If you do not have access to a
computer and internet, please contact your Homeschool Guidance
Department for assistance.
*If the arts recommendation is from a NON-VBCPS employee, you
must print the recommendation form and mail it directly to the
address below. It must be postmarked no later than Monday,
January 11th, 2016.
Salem High School
c/o Mr. Christopher Buhner
1993 SunDevil Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Step 3
DEADLINE - Completed applications must be submitted on-line by
Monday, January 11th, 2016.
Step 4
Review audition requirements in this booklet. Submission of your
application indicates that you understand the requirements and are
prepared for the audition.
Step 5
You will be notified of the date and time of your audition by mail.
Please contact the VPAA office to reschedule for extenuating
circumstances only.
Vocal Music Strand
All vocal music applicants will perform one (1) prepared selection of
appropriate genre (see below), two to three minutes.
 The Academy will provide a piano accompanist for all vocal applicants;
however, vocalists may provide their own accompanists if they wish.
Vocalists should not perform unaccompanied.
 The use of taped accompaniment is allowed; however, any recorded
accompaniment may not include the lead vocal line (please use
karaoke-style cds).
 Memorization of the music will not be required, though it is
recommended.
 Applicants must furnish three original sets of music (no photocopies):
one for each of the adjudicators, and one for accompanist use during
the audition. IMPORTANT: Xeroxed copies of copyrighted music are
in violation of federal copyright law and will not be accepted for
audition use. Listed below are online sites where sheet may be legally
purchased, downloaded, and printed for a small fee:
www.sheetmusicplus.com
www.sheetmusicdirect.us
www.sheetmusicscore.com
www.onlinesheetmusic.com
http://www.free-scores.com/index_uk.php3
 The repertoire should be set at a medium level of difficulty or higher.
1.
Vocalists should select material from the Art Song (standard recital
literature), Opera, Folk, Spiritual, or standard “Broadway Show” repertoire
genres. Any variety of “pop” music (rock, rap, hip-hop, R&B, etc.) is not
appropriate for a formal audition.
2.
In addition to the prepared selections, applicants will be required to
perform a brief sight-reading exercise and complete a series of vocal
exercises (including scales) provided by the judges.
3.
Vocalists will be judged on vocal and breathing technique, interpretation,
tone quality, intonation, musical effect, sight-reading and diction.
4.
Academy auditions are NOT “blind” auditions. Students should understand
that attire, posture, facial expression, and professionalism in performance
are all components of the overall audition score.
Applicants will be asked questions with reference to their art form and their
interests in belonging to the Vocal Strand of the Visual & Performing Arts Academy.
Dance Strand
1. Applicants applying for the dance program will begin with a group
dance class.
 Female applicants are expected to wear a solid color leotard
and footless or convertible tights. Hair must be worn up away
from the face and neck, and tightly secured; no jewelry is to
be worn.
 Male applicants are expected to wear a white closely-fitted
shirt or tank top with black convertible tights or solid black
jazz pants.
 Class will begin with ballet barre, followed by an adagio and a
petit allegro. Following the ballet portion is the modern
portion, where students will perform center exercises, across
the floor combinations, and a final combination.
 Applicants should bring the appropriate shoes for each of the
disciplines they have studied (example: ballet shoes).
2. In addition to the class audition, applicants must bring a prepared
dance piece between 1 and 1.5 minutes in length. This piece may
be choreographed by the applicant or by a dance teacher and
should be in a dance form that demonstrates his or her greatest
strengths as a dancer. Music must be:
 On a CD
 Cued and cut appropriately before arrival
 Clean, clear, and preferably with a five-second leader
All dances and music selections must be age-appropriate and are
to be performed in solid-colored dance attire (no costumes).
3. Applicants will be interviewed after their audition. Topics for
discussion may be:
 Dance training (what disciplines have been studied and where)
 Goals and ambitions (dance-related and otherwise)
 Reasons for applying
 Influences
 Strengths and areas of improvement.
Theatre Strand
1. Theatre auditions for the Visual and Performing Arts Academy
will require applicants to attend a session that will involve a
group warm-up, followed by participation in smaller breakout
sessions that include:
 Monologue Presentation
 Theatre Exercises
 Scene Work
2. Each Applicant will perform a monologue not to exceed one
minute in length.
Monologues should:
Monologues should not:
*Come from a published play
*Be age-appropriate
*Be fully memorized
*Be poetry
*Be taken from movies/TV
*Be from a Shakespeare
play
*Involve use of costumes,
props, or sets
*Involve use of an accent
3. All applicants will take part in small group theatre exercises
that explore the skills necessary for effective ensemble
presentation.
4. Each applicant will perform a short scene with a current
Academy Theatre student with time provided for preparation.
5. The audition will include a brief interview which may address
past theatre experience and special talents.
6. Applicants’ attire should be appropriate for auditions but
should not restrict full range of movement necessary for
warm-ups and theatre exercises.
Girls—no high heels, no tight or short skirts, no dresses
Boys—no oversized or extremely loose clothing, no
baggy/saggy pants
Instrumental Music Strand
WIND AND STRING INSTRUMENTS
PREPARED MUSIC
Students should perform a solo that is at least a VBODA Manual Grade 3
in difficulty or perform the prepared selection from the most recent
District Band or Orchestra Auditions. Most music stores have selections
available for purchase. It is strongly suggested that students consult their
middle school director or private teacher concerning their choice of
materials. Students should bring two original copies for the audition
panel.
***Piano accompaniment is not necessary
SCALES
Students should be prepared to play all scales from the Jr. District Band
or Orchestra Auditions in the “Key” asked for. Judges will not ask for
transposed keys.
All students should be prepared to play the chromatic scale with Junior
District Band or Orchestra specifications.
PERCUSSION
Applicants MUST bring the following:
-own sticks/mallets
-two original copies of music for the audition panel
PREPARED MUSIC
The same requirements pertain as WIND AND STRINGS. It is strongly
suggested that percussionists perform on snare drum, mallet
instruments, and timpani. Percussion instruments will be provided.
PIANO or GUITAR
PREPARED MUSIC
Students should perform one work that demonstrates their ability.
Students should provide two original copies of the music for the
audition panel.
SIGHT READING
Students will be asked to sight read to demonstrate reading ability.
Visual Arts Strand
The student should bring a minimum of 5 pieces of artwork to the
audition. A maximum of 20 is allowed.

Still-life - One of the minimum 5 student artworks must be a
recent still-life drawing. This can be accomplished by picking a
variety of objects from around your home, placing them in an
interesting arrangement and drawing the still-life using pencil
on an 8½” x 11” sheet of plain white paper. This drawing will
be collected and retained for scoring.
Observational Drawing - Areas of Evaluation: Design
Fundamentals, Perception, Elaboration, and Applications of the
Elements of Art

Portfolio - It is highly recommended, not required, that within
the minimum of 5 student artworks a wide range of artwork is
represented. For example:
1. Required still-life
2. Painting
3. Mixed-media artwork (papermaking, collage, wood and string)
4. Ceramic sculpture
5. Creative drawing
Audition - Areas of Evaluation: Range of Media Use and Ability,
Design Elements, Experimentation, and Artwork Content and
Concept.
Est. 2004
I AM AN ACTOR, ARTIST, DANCER,
AND MUSICIAN
Also, while attending the scheduled audition the student will
complete a Creativity Assignment and an Interview.

Creativity Assignment
Imaginary Drawing – Areas of Evaluation: Originality, Elements
of Art, Design Fundamentals, and Elaboration of Ideas.
Interview - Verbal Discussion – Areas of Evaluation: Range of Interest,
Motivation/Work Ethic, Visual Arts Knowledge and Vocabulary Usage,
and Communication of Ideas through Discussion.
Est. 1989
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I take classes from other VPAA strands? Can I take them from
Salem’s Fine Arts Department as well?
A: Yes, keep in mind that some Academy classes require that either a
prerequisite course is completed or prior instructor approval is obtained.
Check with the strand teacher before registering. Students are also
welcomed and encouraged to take classes from the Salem HS Fine Arts
Department.
Q: Can I participate in regular Salem HS clubs and sports teams?
A: Yes, students can participate in any of the SHS clubs and teams. There are
VPAA students on most of the sports teams and involved in an array of
clubs ranging from National Honor Society to Horizons (yearbook) to
Scholastic Bowl, and from football to tennis to gymnastics. However,
students must remember that Academy extracurricular class obligations
take priority.
Q: How do master classes work? How can I get credit for these courses?
Does the master class have to relate to my course of study in order for
me to receive credit?
A: Master classes are important part of each student’s Academy education.
These sessions give students a chance to meet working professionals and
get a better understanding of the different types of jobs available in the
arts world.
 By May 1 of the senior year, each student must have 12
Independent Master Class Credits completed.
 Students can take and receive credit for master class
opportunities within any of the five art strands, but are
encouraged to focus on their strand of study.
 In order to receive Independent credits a written reflection is
required for each experience.
 Students may attend Academy sponsored master classes
offered at school or attend collegiate or professional
performances, exhibits, and/or workshops on their own time.
Prior approval is suggested. Students have one week from
the event to turn in the written reflection.
Q: Where do I get dance clothes, art supplies, instruments, and theatre
costumes?
A: Many supplies are provided by the Academy. The strand teacher will
provide information as to what supplies and materials students will need
to supply on their own.
Q: What are the specific requirements related to the Arts Practicum?
A: Students are expected to complete a practicum experience by the end of
Senior Seminar (1st Semester Senior Year). The suggested duration of this
practicum is two work days. Students are allowed to miss school to
complete this requirement. Options are listed below:
Job Shadowing - Defined as an experience that allows a student to observe
a professional’s daily routine.
Internship - Defined as an experience that allows a student to observe and
actively participate in a professional’s daily routine.
Arts Professional Research - Defined as an experience that allows a
student to interview an arts professional and the field of study as a career.
Q: When do students eat lunch with so many classes?
A: Regardless of the number of classes students are taking, everyone is
provided a 30 minute lunch in the cafeteria during 3rd block. Students can
either bring their lunches or purchase the regular lunch.
Q: What is the GPA requirement for the VPAA? What resources are
available if I struggle in the academic classes?
A: Students who struggle academically are provided support through an
action plan. A mentor is assigned and tutorial and extra help information
is shared. There are many resources available for students, and they are
highly encouraged to ask teachers for extra help. Each department already
provide additional help after school. If a student has a study block, SOL
tutoring is offered during that time. There is not a formal GPA required to
be accepted in the VPAA; however, students are expected to maintain at
least a 2.0/C overall grade point average and a 2.5 GPA in their Academy
classes.
Q: How do I get to and from Salem HS? If I stay late for a club meeting or
practice, will there be transportation provided to take me home?
A: Bus transportation is available to and from school. In August, the Office of
Transportation Services will post Academy stops on the
www.vbschools.com website using Edulog’s WebQuery. If a student stays
after school for an extracurricular activity, he/she can ride an Academy late
bus that leaves SHS at 4:30 pm.
Go VPAA SunDevils!
Master Class Program
As a requirement to graduate with a Visual and Performing Arts Academy
diploma, an academy student must complete 12 Independent Credits of
master classes. In addition, students are expected to complete master class
requirements embedded into classroom instruction. Please see additional
documentation for Master Class Criteria and examples of Master Classes
currently being offered at VPAA.
The Virginia Beach City Public Schools prohibits discrimination on the basis of race,
color, religion, sex, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy and
childbirth, or marital status. School Board policies and supporting regulation
(Policies 2-33, 4-4, 5-7, and 6-7 and Regulation 5-44.1) provide equal access to
courses, programs, counseling services, physical education and athletics, vocational
education, instructional materials, and extracurricular activities. Violations of these
policies should be reported to the Director of Student Leadership at (757) 263-2020
or the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources at (757) 263-1133.
VPAA Partners & Sponsors
Beach Events
Chrysler Museum
Friends of the Academy – FOTA
Global Spectrum
Little Theatre of Norfolk
Museum of Contemporary Art – MOCA
ODU/NSU Center
Old Dominion University Music Department
Sandler Center for the Performing Arts
Tidewater Community College – Visual Arts Center
Tidewater Winds
Virginia Arts Festival
Virginia Beach Chorale
Virginia Musical Theatre
Virginia Stage Company
Virginia Wind Symphony
Virginia Wesleyan College Music Department
Follow Mr. Buhner on Twitter for Show Updates: @VPAASalem
Like us on Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/vpaavocalmusic,
vpaavisualarts, vpaatheatre, vpaainstrumentalmusic & vpaadance
Thank you for your interest in the
Visual & Performing Arts Academy!
Alternative formats of this publication which may include taped, Braille, or large
print materials are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.
Call or write The Department of Teaching and Learning,
Director of Office of Academy Programs, Virginia Beach City Public Schools,
2512 George Mason Drive, P.O. Box 6038, Virginia Beach, VA 23456-0038.
Telephone (757) 263-1070 or (757) 263-1429; fax (757) 263-1412.
Dr. Aaron Spence, Superintendent