Performing Arts

Lower School

The Lower School music program builds on an inclusive, nurturing environment where music supports growth, creativity, and community. Students in the Lower School chorus learn musical skills that build confidence, foster collaboration, and enhance self-expression. In the second semester, they study music theory, explore Orff instruments, recorders, hand bells, ukulele, basic piano, and percussion instruments, and learn to read from a score. Through diverse repertoire and community partnerships, every student experiences meaningful, enriching musical opportunities.

Middle School

Middle School students develop their musical ear and appreciation skills. They sing in harmony, explore vocal techniques, and learn to give feedback using musical terms. Students try percussion and string instruments, sing solo and in groups, and learn performance etiquette. They showcase their skills in school events like the Peace and Light Ceremony, spring musical, ArtBeat, and the Moving Up Ceremony. Students may also choose the Choir & Vocal Technique Elective, a cross-divisional choir that brings together students in different divisions to collaborate in a high-level choral ensemble. 

High School

High School music classes focus on singing and playing instruments such as drums, guitar, and keyboard, as well as the Choir & Vocal Technique Elective. All students learn to read music and perform, with lessons tailored to their skill levels. Each semester ends with a performance. Highlights include the 2025 Peace and Light Ceremony, where two separate bands performed “End of the Road” by Boyz II Men and “Everlong” by Foo Fighters. At our annual June ArtBeat, bands perform in a showcase where students vote for their favorite band, which returns to the stage for an encore.

As students move from Lower to Middle School, they get more chances to express themselves creatively. Each semester, students choose to focus on either visual arts, music, or drama, allowing them to develop their skills in depth.

In drama classes, students learn to perform and be respectful audience members. They use movement, voice, and humor to create thoughtful performances. They explore character development, study the works of different playwrights, and work in pairs to improve their scenes. Eighth graders study Stanislavsky’s methods to create stronger characters. Guest instructors, such as a puppeteer, also lead workshops where students make sock puppets and perform original stories.

Beyond class, Middle and High Schoolers, as well as Next Steps students, can join two theater productions each year – a fall play and a spring musical. These productions help students build confidence, connect with others, and grow as performers.