Starting in the Lower School, in grades junior kindergarten through five, students take part in the Orff-Schulwerk Music Program. The program consists of singing, movement, rhythm, poetry, drama, finger plays, sound awareness, musical notation and fundamentals, improvisation, instrument identification, and learning to play the recorder and other melodic/rhythmic percussion instruments. In addition, fourth and fifth graders may choose to participate in the After School Band and Orchestra Program.
In the Middle School, the performing arts courses are more specialized and strengthen the disciplines introduced in the Lower School. Students select from one discipline: chorus, drama, orchestra, or band. We encourage students to perform as frequently as possible to help them build their technique, confidence, critical-thinking skills, musicianship, and a sense of self discipline and cooperation within a group.
The performing arts in the Upper School provide more challenging performing opportunities and help students develop their individual talents. The program builds on the foundation laid in the Middle School.
Upper School students may choose from these courses:
- Theatre I
- Theatre II
- Playwriting
- Directing
- Concert Choir
- Show Choir
- Wind Ensemble
- Jazz Ensemble
- Chamber Orchestra
- Music Theory and Composition
- Independent Music Study
- Advanced Placement Music Theory
The new state-of-the-art Chapel/Performing Arts Center, located on the Upper School campus, provides a beautiful and professional space for students to experience every aspect of performing.
