Upper School & Middle School Arts

In 4th and 5th Grade, we begin to introduce students to instrumental music in larger ensembles. These opportunities give each student the opportunity to discover their musical interests and talents in a safe and fun setting. Once our students reach Middle School, the Arts take on an elective format and students can continue to advance in their musical journey.

4th Graders have the option to take Recorders or Strings for their music class. Our Recorders classes teach students the fundamentals of music reading and applying that to a wind instrument. We use a curriculum of Recorder Karate, where students are rewarded for their progress through belts and certificates. Our Strings class teaches students the fundamentals of Orchestra instruments including the violin, viola and cello. Each of these groups participates in a live performance at the end of each semester.

5th Grade Band is offered at a beginner level. Students explore instrument options and begin their instrumental ensemble journey. Then in Middle School we have two different bands: 6th Grade Band and 7th/8th Grade Band. Each successive band builds on the year before, and offers new music opportunities and challenges. Music literacy is a continual goal, with added All State and other competition opportunities.

5th Grade Orchestra continues to build on the previous year. Then in Middle School the music advances as students become more proficient on their instruments. String Bass is added to the groups as an additional option for students. All State and other competition options are also available here.

 

5th Grade and Middle School Choruses are both offered. Each of these groups learns seasonal, modern and classical pieces and studies the history and composers of each. They also learn ensemble participation and performance etiquette. Chorus is also a great supplement to Musical Theatre and other performance, worship, and competition opportunities.

 

We perform a show each year specifically designed for our Middle School students. Typically in November, this performance gives our younger students the opportunity to showcase their talents in a theatrical production from start to finish. All students are accepted into the cast, lead roles and songs are based on auditions. A/V, technical and crew opportunities are also available for behind the scenes involvement.

 

Students 1st through 5th Grade have the opportunity to participate in their first theatre production. These students hone their theatrical talents in an after school club format, culminating each semester in a live performance. All students are accepted into the cast; students audition for lead roles.

 

Students 1st through 5th Grade have the opportunity to participate in our new Dance Club offering. Students explore a variety of dance forms and how the Lord can use them for His glory. Live performance is part of each semester, and serves as the finale of each session.

 

Middle School Drum Corps is the foundation for our Marching Lions. Here students begin their Corps experience on drums, cymbals and other percussion. These students perform at all home Middle School football games, and other events throughout the school year. dWe also offer Color Guard and Pep Band opportunities, which are at the Varsity level. Pep Band is for 8th graders only, who play with the High School students on saxophones, trumpets, flutes, etc. Color Guard is currently open to all Middle School grades, and they also join with High School. Pep Band and Color Guard play for all Varsity football games, home and away, and other events throughout the school year.