Mission Statement

The Fine Arts Academy at Mt. Vernon Senior High School believes a student’s education is enriched by experiences in the arts; because of their interdisciplinary nature, the arts influence all areas of academic study.

We believe an environment that acknowledges and empowers creative expression in its varied forms also fosters personal growth, maturity and responsibility. The Fine Arts Academy provides an artist-scholar environment that addresses a variety of learning styles.

We believe the arts provide an opportunity for lifelong learning and participants in the arts are among the best representatives of our school and community.

Academy Description

The Fine Arts Academy at Mt. Vernon Senior High School is comprised of award winning students and faculty in music, theatre and the visual arts. A commitment to academic excellence and a belief that through the arts, students find lifelong fulfillment is at the core of our teaching philosophy. Students are provided opportunities in instrumental and vocal music, musical theatre, acting, technical theatre and traditional and digital visual arts. Upon graduation, students will be prepared for post-secondary endeavors and arts related careers. The Fine Arts Academy provides over forty events each year to further student’s skills and artistic talents.

News

Fine Arts Academy Singers Invited to Return to New York

Distinguished Concerts International New York has invited singers from the Fine Arts Academy to perform the world premiere of Christopher Tin’s new work, The Drop That Contained the Sea.

To start the process of registering singers and further planning of the trip, families will need to discuss their desire for participation so that we can reserve an accurate number of participants.

Follow the Fine Arts Academy Facebook page for updates.

Please read the invitation found below.

DCINY Invitation

Angelus Invited to Perform at the American Choral Directors Regional Conference in Cincinnati

Angelus has just been notified that they will present a mainstage performance at the American Choral Directors Association Central Conference on Thursday, Feb. 27 at 1:30pm in Cincinnati. Congratulations on this unique and prestigious honor. They will be one of about thirty ensembles from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio and were selected from public and private schools, universities and professional ensembles.

Angelus Tours the Carolinas in July

Angelus will travel to North and South Carolina from July 14-21, 2013 presenting concerts in Asheville, Boone, Spartanburg, Columbia, Pawleys Island and Charleston.

Concerts are slated for July 14 at 3:00 in the Sanctuary of St. Matthias Episcopal Church (Asheville), July 15, 7:00 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (Boone), July 16, 7:00 at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church (Spartanburg), July 18, 7:00 at St. Timothy’s Episcopal (Columbia), July 19, 7:00 at Holy Cross Faith Memorial Episcopal Church (Pawleys Island) and July 21, 3:00 at Church of the Holy Communion (Charleston).

Short Reach Short Riders Raise $1500 for “Behind the Scenes”

The annual “Short Reach Short Riders” Charity Trike Race brought in over $1500 for Behind the Scenes (an Initiative of The ESTA Foundation). Sponsors for the 2013 edition of the ride are Barbara E.R. Lucas, Kim Craigie, Lori Rubinstein, John McGraw, Reid Neslage, Bill Sapsis, MVHS FFA, MVHS Key Club and Vincent Lighting Systems.

The seventh annual ride for “Behind the Scenes”, the “trikers” have raised nearly $10,000 for “Behind the Scenes” and have enjoyed great support from throughout the entertainment technology industry.

Melanie Davis Selected as Hagemann Competition Finalist

Arts Academy Junior Melanie Davis has been selected as a finalist in the Hagemann Competition for Musical Performance. Following an initial recorded audition, the field of competitors was narrowed to four after a semi-final audition held on Apr. 11. The finals will be held later this summer with the winner receiving a $2000 scholarship and a cash prize in excess of $500. The Hagemann Competition was created by composer and Mt. Vernon native Philip Hagemann and will mark its 31st Anniversary this summer.

Calling All Dawns New York Premiere on Apr. 7 at Avery Fisher Hall a Success

The concert, performed at Avery Fisher Hall was an unqualified success and as noteds by Kevin Taylor (DCINY) “Everyone in the choir should be proud of their work and dedication to excellent performance. Their hard work, perseverance and sheer enjoyment paid off. It brings gladness to us that the music was given a successful New York Premiere and brought to life by you with such passion.”

The Fine Arts Academy thanks the parents, singers, administrators and DCINY for an outstanding weekend.

Calling All Dawns New York Premiere Apr. 7 at Avery Fisher Hall

Twenty-two student singers from Mt. Vernon will perform the New York premiere of Christopher Tin’s “Calling All Dawns”. Students leave for New York on Apr. 4 and will return Apr. 8.

Wedding Singer a Success for Academy Music Theatre

Audiences were thrilled with the MVHS Fine Arts Academy production of “The Wedding Singer”. The production was performed on Mar. 7-9 in the MVHS Performing Arts Center.

Evansville Museum Arts Awards

Twenty Mount Vernon High School art students have had works accepted into the 2013 Evansville Museum High School Art show. For fifty years, the Evansville Museum has honored young high school artists from southwestern Indiana. Students entered artwork in the following categories: painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, jewelry, textiles, ceramics, photography, and commercial design.

Art students selected include: in the Drawing category, “Self Portrait” by Mickaela Williamson; in the Textiles category, “Moon and Tree” by Brittney Mills; in the Commercial Design category, “A Happy Kind of Blue” by Hunter Chambers, “Picasso Proportions” by Jordan Crabtree, “Be the Color” by Alyssa Marlowe, “Block Head” by Jalen Maxfield, “Lost” by Micah Powers, “A Colorful Distortion” by Isaac Redman, “Self Portrait with Picasso” by Levi Reinitz, “Lazy Days” by Taylor Riddick, “Absent Minded Child” by Madison Simpson, and “Rolen” by Austin Doerflein; in the Mixed Media category, “Lion’s Mane” by Haley Biggs; in the Ceramics category, “Reflector” and “Laces Out” by Dalton Marshall; and in the Photography category, “My Mother” by Devon Allyn, “Fluorescence” by MecKenzie Heckman, “Bottle View” by Cara Hoskins, “And Then There Was Light” by Amber Petrig, and “Cell Tower Sky” by Ellie Weilbrenner.

The exhibition will open with an awards reception on Thursday, March 14 at 7:00 p.m. at the Evansville Museum of Arts, History, and Science. Student pieces will then be on display from March 14 – April 14, 2013.

Arts Awards Update

The following Academy students earned awards at the Evansville Museum Art Show:

Drawing —Michaela Williamson, Mount Vernon, second

Graphic design — Taylor Riddick, Mount Vernon, first

Photography —  Devon Allyn, Mount Vernon, second; and Meckenzie Heckman, Mount Vernon, third.

Textiles — Brittney Mills, Mount Vernon, third.

Andrew Higgins to Lead the Rose Bowl Parade Honor Band

A first for the Mt. Vernon Senior High School Fine Arts Academy, Andrew initially was selected to play trombone but was then selected to serve as drum major for the Band of America (BOA) Honor Band following a symposium at Ball State University.

Thespian Troupe 982 presents “Almost, Maine” Nov. 15-17

On a cold, clear, moonless night in the middle of winter, all is not quite what it seems in the remote, mythical town of Almost, Maine. As the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, Almost’s residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and often hilarious ways. Knees are bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises heal, and the hearts mend – almost – in this delightful midwinter night’s dream.”…a whimsical approach to the joys and perils of romance. Magical happenings bloom beneath the snowdrifts.” – The New York Times

“A charmer…Unexpected magic lingers in the air like someone’s breath on a cold winter’s night. John Cariani aims for the heart by way of the funny bone.” – The Star-Ledger

“Utterly endearing…It’s hard not to warm up to Almost, Maine. A crowd-pleaser.” – Broadway.com

“Sweet, poignant and witty.” – The New York Daily News

“A snowy charmer…These nine tales of love in the time of frostbite have a winning glow that proves surprisingly contagious.” – The New York Sun

Art Camp Saturday, Nov. 10

Fall Art Camp 2012
Hosted by the MVHS Art Guild
Who: Students in 3rd through 8th grade
What: The Mt. Vernon Senior High School Art Guild is hosting an art camp for students to explore art techniques and different mediums. Students will be given opportunities to express themselves through three different projects (T-shirt Art, Printmaking and Painting). We hope to educate students while having FUN!

Angelus’ Newest Recording Available Oct. 5

The newest recording by Angelus, “Contemplation” will be available for digital download starting Oct. 5, 2012 from CDBaby.com. Featuring works by Ana Hernandez, Ruth Cunningham and Ekkhartus of St. Gall, the recording focuses on music ranging from the 10th to 20th centuries. The recording will also be available at ITunes, Amazon, Napster, Lastfm and Spotify. Physical CD’s will be available later in October. Orders can be placed by calling 812-833-5932.

Academy Choirs Invited to Perform NYC Premiere of “Calling All Dawns”

Distinguised Concert International New York has extended an invitation to the MVHS Academy Choirs to perform the NYC premiere of Christopher Tin’s “Calling All Dawns”. The invitation was extended following a review of our work and a strong recommendation by Mr. Tin.

“Calling All Dawns” is scheduled to be performed on Sunday, Apr. 7 at 2:00pm in Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center.

Arts Council Names Angelus “Arts Ensemble of the Year”

The Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana has named Angelus as its “Arts Ensemble of the Year”. During a press conference held on June 27, Arts Awards Chairman Jack Schriber noted the ensemble’s numerous performances in the Evansville area and across the country and their dedication to musical excellence.

An awards dinner will be held at Casino Aztar on Sept. 6 where all award recipients will be honored.

Mr. Taylor Named to Board of The ESTA Foundation

Dana Taylor, Technical Theatre Instructor has been named to the Board of Directors of The ESTA Foundation, a educational and philanthropic foundation serving the entertainment technology industry. Foundation Board President, William Price notes,

“Dana’s work on behalf of both the educational and charitable initiatives of the Foundation have made him an important and well respected member of our industry. We are very grateful that he will be helping to guide the future direction of the Foundation.

Dana joins a group of industry leaders from prominent venue managers and labor leaders,
to educators, working professionals, and corporate executives who bring a wide range of
knowledge and experience to the Board that will benefit Dana and ultimately his students.”

Most recently, Mr. Taylor’s Media Development committee rolled out the eSET app (Essential Skills for the Entertainment Technician). The app is available for the IPhone, IPod and IPad.

Angelus Announces Summer Tour

Angelus will embark on a summer tour starting June 21 at the Episcopal Church of the Holy Communion in St. Louis. Other performances will include Mt. Grace Convent (St. Louis) on June 22 and Christ Church Episcopal (Rolla, MO) on June 23 and 24. All performances are free and open to the public.

On Thursday, June 28 the ensemble will present a free public concert at St. Benedict Cathedral (Evansville) starting at 7:00pm.

To learn more about Angelus, please visit us on  

Calling All Dawns: An Unqualified Success

The 2010 Grammy Award winning “Calling All Dawns” was performed on Sunday, May 6 in the MVHS Performing Arts Center for over 780 audience members  Featuring Academy Choirs, Percussion Ensemble and works by Academy Visual Arts students, the concert will be conducted by Alfred Savia and played by the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra and members of the Evansville Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. Special guest, composer Christopher Tin described the performance as “wonderful” and expressed his gratitude for the student’s hard work and achievements. Mr. Tin spent Thursday-Sunday with students, coaching with them and sharing his exeriences within the world of composition and performance. Bravo to all of our participants and congratulations.

Anonymous 4 to Present Demonstration Class: Feb. 5, 2012

Angelus and Anonymous 4

Angelus members were the special guests of Anonymous 4 at their Feb. 4 concert in New Harmomy. Having collaborated on two different occasions, Anonymous 4 received the women of Angelus warmly and in the spirit of collegialty. Pictured are both ensembles at the post concert meet and greet.

Vocal Music Department Spring Musical an Indiana High School Premiere

Ring of Fire is the story of Johnny Cash as told through his songs.

The production will be performed on Mar. 8, 9 and 10 in the MVHS Performing Arts Center.

Grammy Award Winning Composer at Fine Arts Academy
On May 6, 2012 the Fine Arts Academy will present the 2011 Grammy Award winning work Calling All Dawns.Featuring Fine Arts Academy and area singers, the performance will be conducted by Maestro Alfred Savia and accompanied by the Evansville Philharmonic.Composer, Christopher Tin will be in residence during the final rehearsals and performance.

Audrey Summers Receives Scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design

Mt. Vernon High School Senior, Audrey Summers, has been selected to receive the Artistic Honors Scholarship and the Academic Honors Scholarship at the Savannah College of Art and Design for the 2012-13 school year.  The scholarships are for four years based on her art portfolio and academic record.  The college is located in Savannah, Georgia and is one of the preeminent universities in the arts in the United States. Audrey is the daughter of Jenna and Brent Summers of Mt. Vernon.

Academy Students Excel at Brescia University Brescia University’s 32st Annual Juried High School Art Exhibition held its Awards Ceremony and Reception on Saturday, December 9th at 5 pm. The ceremony was held at Fine Arts Gallery of Brescia University in Owensboro, Kentucky.

Mt. Vernon High School Junior, Olivia Mader, received the Juror’s Award with her photograph entitled “Working at the Car Wash”. Other Finalists included: Samantha Alsop with her photograph entitled “Old Barn”, Bailey Ash with her photograph entitled “Serenity”, Mary Klueh with her photograph entitled “Underwater Lovin”, Erica Martin with her painting entitled “Oil Self Portrait”, and Chavandra Clark with two photographs entitled “Look at Me” and “Butterfly from Heaven”. The director of the exhibition was David Stratton, Professor of Art and Design at Brescia University.

Angelus Releases Michael McGlynn: Music for Women’s Voices

Celebrating the music of one of their favorite composers, Angelus’ newest recording features both sacred and secular works rich in Mr. McGlynn’s melodic and harmonic vocabulary. The recording is currently available by clicking on the image at the left. It will soon be available in itunes, amazon and other digital music providers.

Mr. Huddleson Receives National Award

Mt. Vernon High School Visual Art teacher, Otis Huddleson, has been notified that he has been awarded a National Medal and Certificate of Recognition from the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards in New York City.  The awards are based on student results in the Awards.

The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards is presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writer and is the largest and longest running recognition program for teenage artists and writers.

Virginia McEnerney, Executive Director of the Awards wrote, “Congratulations!  As a teacher, you should be very proud of your students’ recognition in the 2011 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.  To honor your dedication to your students, please accept the enclosed medal as a commemoration of this milestone in your career.  We are thrilled that your students have demonstrated such outstanding creative potential and that you choose to share it with us.”

Mr. Huddleson teaches Digital Design, Photography, Visual Communications, and AP Studio Art.  This is the eighth time he has received a national award in his teaching career.

Our New Logo

Created by Academy student Tessa Anderson

Theatrical Rigging Workshop Oct. 1

The Fine Arts Academy will host a “Theatrical Rigging Skills Workshop” on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 9:00am-4:00pm at the Centre in Evansville. The presenter will be Bill Sapsis and will cover rigging fundamentals, system components, fall arrest, system maintainence and related topics. The workshop is designed to assist individuals who work withing educational and professional theatre as well as houses of worship. Call 812-833-5932 for more information.

Mr. Taylor Earns Local and  National Awards

Dana Taylor, Director of Vocal Music and technical theatre instructor was awarded the 2011 Founders’ Award by the Educational Theatre Association for significant contributions to the growth and development of theatre education in the United States.

The award was presented on Saturday, June 25 at the International Thespian Festival (Lincoln, NE).

On Tuesday, June 28, the Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana named Mr. Taylor its Artist of the Year for his work in choral music and technical theatre. During Mr. Taylor’s tenure at MVHS, the technical theatre program has gained national recognition and students are involved in numerous school productions as well as servicing clients ranging from area high schools to the Evansville Philharmonic. Additionally, the vocal music program has gained national attention through its unique women’s ensemble “Angelus”

Angelus’ San Francisco Tour a Success

Angelus outside of Grace Cathedral following Friday's performance.

Angelus’ was warmly received by concert audiences during their recent tour to San Francisco. Featuring concert appearances at Grace Cathedral, Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption and St. Dominic’s (San Francisco) as well as performances at St. Patrick’s (Kenwood) and St. Alban’s (Albany) the ensemble premiered three new works “Lorica” and “Wild Song” by Michael McGlynn and a new setting of “Sounds of Silence” after the British ensemble “All Angels”.  Auditions for the 2011-2012 edition of Angelus will begin in August.

Mikey Stephens-Emerson in “Lost in Yonkers”

MVHS rising sophomore Mikey Stephens-Emerson earns rave reviews in his performance of “Jay” in Neil Simon’s “Lost in Yonkers”. Read Roger McBain’s review at the following link.

“Yonkers’ Set Stage for High Expectations”

Technical Theatre Students Help “Peter Pan” Fly

MVHS Techical Theatre students Jessica King, Brandon Lauderdale and Spencer Boyle recently worked for the Evansville Ballet’s production of “Peter Pan” at the Henderson Fine Arts Center (Henderson, KY). After Tuesday’s load in and light hang, the students spent the balance of the time working as flymen for the aerial effects.  (Photo from “The Gleaner”)