The MYP Performing Arts curriculum guides students in planning, preparing, and performing various art forms. They reflect on the art, the context, and their own performance as they study each trimester. Students are encouraged to participate in 50 hours of performing arts study during their MYP years.
Elements: Three Trimesters
The first trimester offers students the opportunity to sing together in Choir. The choir prepares music from around the world and performs for the community. Students particularly like participating in Figgy Pudding, a local singing competition held downtown during Advent to celebrate the season.
For the second trimester, all students in the MYP participate during Exploratory time in creating a musical. From the sets and props to the production artwork to the actors on stage, every element of the musical production is created by students. This work culminates in three days of performance in the early spring. We hope that you can join the audience this year!
In the third trimester, students explore music in its various modes and performance styles. Classes range from studying world music to percussion and rhythm to guitar and ukulele. Also offered in the third trimester is an acting class. Students study characterization by creating a one-act play in a small group. These classes perform for the school community.
Classwork: Acting
In the Performing Arts acting classes, students work on the following assignments:
- A performing arts journal for reflection and study of the theatrical art form
- Building a character using Uta Hagen’s 9 Questions
- Scene work with other actors
- Solo and ensemble singing rehearsals with other actors
- Technical and dress rehearsals
- 3 nights of performance or performances for younger students
Classwork: Music
In Performing Arts music classes, students work on the following assignments:
- Practicing vocal and performance techniques
- Practicing harmony and singing in parts
- Reflecting on the context of music from cultures around the world
- Learning new musical instruments
- Practicing rhythms and playing together
- Reflecting on the art of music as well as the impact of music on an audience
- Performing at St. Luke Masses as well as three public performances during the holiday season