Program : Middle School : The Arts

"We are very happy that FRCDS offers a great arts & music program. Unfortunately in my daughter’s old (public) school this was not always the case, since budget cuts forced the schools to cut out a lot of these creative outlets. The first thing she did was sign up for choir and chimes. We also had a chance to look at the impressive art building and the beautiful student artwork that is displayed everywhere. What a great way for all the students to develop and communicate!"

Visual Art
Two art studios provide many opportunities for exploring creativity and self-expression. Students are supported to delve into activities they already know and love, but they are also guided to learn about new areas of expression.

Picture this…
• using the pottery wheel.
• learning about Matisse and Monet.
• creating 3-D objects with hand-made paper.
• making a texture collage with leaves collected on a hike.
• drawing and painting from life and from imagination.
• learning about color theory, perspective, and proportion.
• participating in a community work of art.

Music and Drama
The music program provides another rich avenue for expression. During in-depth music classes students gradually increase their master the basics of music, from rhythm and tempo right on up to note reading and site-singing, and including music history and appreciation. Middle School students learn to play hand chimes in a group and have the opportunity to join a choral ensemble. Everyone gets opportunities to perform, whether in musical or drama productions. Attention is given to maintaining high standards, supporting fellow students, developing poise and stage presence, and enjoying the process of sharing with an audience.

Picture this…

• performing with poise and joy.
• taking part in a radio play, an improv performance, or a musical.
• playing in a recorder consort.
• being part of a hand-chime choir
• learning the principles of composition.
• singing in three-part harmony.