Middle School Fine and Performing Arts

All information regarding the Middle School Fine and Performing Arts can be found here.

Music (6-8)

General Music Cycles (Grades 6 & 7): Designed for students not in band, orchestra, or chorus. Focuses on technology-based music making and composition, where students create raps, melodies, and soundscapes using audio recording and editing techniques.
Music Ensemble Rehearsal (Grades 6–8): A required cycle class for all band, orchestra, and chorus members. Rehearsals focus on intonation, blend, balance, rhythmic unity, listening skills, and musicianship.
Ensemble Requirements & Performances: Ensemble students participate in before-school rehearsals, scheduled instrumental lessons, and mandatory Winter and Spring concerts.
Jazz Band (Grade 8): An optional, audition-based ensemble for 8th-grade band students. Rehearses weekly after school starting in January and performs at the Spring Concert.

Art (6-8)

Core Studio Art (Grades 6–8): A progressive sequence of studio art courses focusing on hands-on creation across drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, design, crafts, and computer graphics. Students explore art history, aesthetics, and art criticism, while gaining an understanding of visual art careers, creativity, and the role of art in society.
Digital Art (Grade 8): A STEAM-aligned course that builds technological literacy, visual design, and graphic communication skills. It connects to math and literacy while serving as a foundation for advanced high school software (like Photoshop, Illustrator, and CAD) and careers in advertising, marketing, and commercial art.
Drawing & Painting (Grade 8): An elective that builds on 7th-grade fundamentals. Students refine drawing techniques before advancing to traditional and contemporary painting methods, while sharpening observational and critique skills through analyzing peer artwork and famous masterpieces.

Theater

Curricular Course: Students in 7th and 8th grade have the opportunity to select our curricular class during the school day. In this course, students will dive into the exciting world of theatre through a variety of interactive activities designed to build confidence and develop essential skills in performance and stagecraft. Students will learn the basics of acting, stage movement, voice projection, and character development. They'll also get an introduction to behind-the-scenes elements like costumes, props, and set design. This class encourages teamwork, confidence, and self-expression, all while helping students build communication skills and an appreciation for the performing arts. No experience needed, just bring your imagination!

Fall Plays and Spring Musicals:

Both OAS and HAS offer vibrant Fall and Spring productions open to all 6th through 8th-grade students by audition. Students can also join Stage Crew to learn all about set build, costumes, light, and sound!