The single most important aspect of the curriculum is the production of music. Students learn to read and write musical notation, beginning with rhythm, and progressing to the pitches of the treble and bass clefs. As the students learn the inner workings of music, they also produce it through singing, playing (rhythm and Orff instruments), moving, and performing. Third Graders engage in a year-long study of the recorder while Fourth Graders learn to ring the English handbells. Students are encouraged to respond intellectually as well as emotionally to the work under consideration.
Lower School Arts
Our Lower School Arts Programs build upon the foundation set in Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten.
Lower School Music Introduction
Our music program is dedicated to making music a significant source of enjoyment and fulfillment to each student, both now and throughout his or her life. This objective is approached on three levels: perceiving music, producing music, and responding to music. To perceive music aesthetically, students must hear and learn to detect the qualities that make sound expressive. Beginning in the lower grades and increasing in complexity as the students themselves grow, a varied program of music appreciation is presented.
Lower School Music Education
Lower School Performing Arts
Performing arts presents the fundamentals of acting. Basic skills are taught and practiced through games, exercises, and improvisations in order to learn clarity of speech, projection of voice, concentration, the expansion of physical, vocal, and emotional expression, and the growth of imagination and creativity. The Fourth Graders perform a play in the spring. The students audition, attend rehearsals, and put on two performances. They learn the art of becoming a team in which all are involved directly in the building and outcome of the production.
Lower School Art and Design
Art takes a multimedia approach with a focus on elements and principles of design, art history, modern artists, and the study of Florida and its multicultural demographics. We follow the social studies and geography curricula to introduce cultural art forms and art history. Students participate in area exhibits and design invitations and program covers for school events. They also help with scenery for theatrical productions. The program is enriched by visiting artists and museum trips.