Middle School ARTS
The arts are at the heart of the Middle School experience, giving students a dynamic space to explore creativity, self-expression, and collaboration. Whether through music, visual arts, theater, or stagecraft, students develop their artistic skills while building confidence and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
A Journey Through the Arts
Music is a core part of our curriculum, with every Grade 6 and 7 student participating in either instrumental music (band or strings) or choir. By Grade 8, students can dive even deeper, selecting an arts major in performing or visual arts.
With a range of choices—including choir, band, dance, theater, and strings—students can tailor their experience to their passions.
Each year, the Middle School stages two major productions—a fall play and a spring musical. Open to all students, these productions offer exciting opportunities to shine on stage or contribute behind the scenes through set design, lighting, and stagecraft.
Middle School Instrumentals
Students continue honing their skills in band, strings, and choir, expanding their understanding of musical language and technique. The curriculum explores musical history and culture, blending instrumental training with elements of drama and theater.
For Grade 8 students, choosing a Performing Arts major means immersing themselves in band, strings, choir, or theater. Some students even choose to major in both Performing and Visual Arts, broadening their creative experience.
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Middle School Choir Program
The Middle School Choir program is a natural extension of the vocal training introduced in Lower School. With a focus on skill-building and musical growth, choir students work on:
- Reading notes in treble and bass clefs
- Identifying solfege based on key signatures
- Perfecting diction in foreign languages
- Maintaining steady pulse and rhythmic accuracy
Choir is offered at three levels, based on grade and skill level, ensuring students receive the right level of challenge and support. Through performances and classroom experiences, students grow not only as musicians but as confident learners ready to take on new challenges.
Middle School Performances for the 2025-26 School YearAll performances will take place in the Performing Arts Center. Middle School Fall Play
Middle and Upper School Choral Concert
Middle and Upper School Instrumental Concert
Middle and Upper School Cabaret
El Sistema Residency Concert
Middle and Upper School Cabaret
Middle and Upper School Vocal Concert
Middle and Upper School Choral Concert
Middle and Upper School Band Concert
Middle School Musical
Middle and Upper School Strings Concert
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Bringing the Arts to Life
From ensemble performances to full-scale theatrical productions, Middle School students experience the arts in action. Whether singing, acting, playing an instrument, or designing a set, they find their creative voice and discover the joy of artistic expression.
The arts at King School are more than just classes—they’re an adventure in creativity, collaboration, and personal growth.
Exploring Identity, Promoting Creativity
Middle School Art |
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Middle School is a time for students to refine their artistic skills and embrace personal expression. Through a variety of art forms, students explore their unique identities, build confidence, and develop their artistic voices. By Grade 8, they have the opportunity to dive even deeper by choosing to major in Visual Arts, Performing Arts, or both. |
A Hands-On Art Experience |
Art classes meet two to three times per rotation, providing students with consistent opportunities to experiment and grow. At each grade level, they take on increasingly complex projects using a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional techniques, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media. Throughout the program, students:
Each class culminates in an independent project known as the OPEN Project, where students brainstorm, sketch, practice, and reflect using a digital sketchbook. These original works are then showcased in the OPEN Art Show in the Upper School mezzanine gallery. |
Grade 8 Major Course Options |
Advanced Art Open to any Grade 8 student with a passion for art and design, this course builds on foundational skills in drawing, painting, sculpting, collage, and printmaking. Students examine the Elements of Art and Principles of Design while analyzing works from diverse cultures worldwide.
Exploring Digital Media For students interested in digital art and design, this full-year major introduces them to:
Students work hands-on with professional equipment such as cameras and drawing tablets, using industry-standard software to create digital content for video, audio, and the web. The course emphasizes:
Like Advanced Art, this course culminates in an OPEN Project, allowing students to showcase their creative growth. Evaluations follow the A&D department’s rubric, ensuring a focus on effort, engagement, and participation. This course prepares students for the Advanced Art track or any Digital Art courses in the Upper School. |
Middle School Art is more than just learning techniques—it’s about discovering one’s creative identity, taking bold risks, and sharing a unique vision with the world.