Performing Arts

Lower School

IDEAL’s Lower School music program builds on the belief that every child is naturally musical. Students sing in tune and in harmony, play instruments like drums, keyboards, guitars, and recorders, and read music. They explore music from different cultures and time periods through movement and listening. Students also create their own music by improvising, arranging, and composing, often in small groups.

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.

High School

High School music classes focus on singing and playing instruments such as drums, guitar, and keyboard. All students learn to read music and perform, with lessons tailored to their skill levels. Each semester ends with a performance. Highlights include the Peace and Light Ceremony, where students performed Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground,” and ArtBeat, where small bands showcase their work.

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 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.