Performing Arts
OVERVIEW
Hickory Grove’s Performing Arts Program is designed to uncover and develop students' talents while fostering new skills, all in a way that glorifies God. By integrating the arts with a Biblical worldview, the program helps students discover their identity, understand God’s nature, and find their purpose.
A key element of the program is its progression across grade levels. Starting in fourth and fifth grades, students are encouraged to participate in performances like the Christmas Chapel and school-wide musicals, building a foundation for involvement in middle school theatre, musical theatre, and choir. Middle school students continue to refine their skills through opportunities to audition for the school-wide musical, Christmas Chapel, and Winter or Spring Performing Arts Concerts. These experiences prepare them for more advanced theatre classes in high school, while also equipping them with strong presentation skills applicable across their academic journey.
ELEMENTARY ARTS
The elementary music curriculum aligns with the National Standards for Music Education, focusing on core musical skills and concepts. Students engage in a variety of musical activities:
- Singing and Instrumentation: Students learn to sing and play rhythm instruments, including Orff instruments, using a diverse selection of music.
- Recorder Introduction: Beginning in fourth grade, students develop foundational skills by learning to play the recorder.
- Music Creation and Literacy: Students explore creating their own rhythmic patterns and melodies while learning to read and notate music.
- Cross-Disciplinary Connections: Students listen to and respond to music, discovering its connections to science, math, language arts, and technology. They also explore the historical and cultural context of music, all from a Biblical worldview.
MIDDLE SCHOOL ARTS
The middle school curriculum offers hands-on learning through biweekly classes, with band, choir, and musical theatre as elective options.
In band, sixth-grade students can begin learning to play an instrument, while seventh and eighth graders are encouraged to continue honing their skills. With both beginning and intermediate band levels, students can either fill in learning gaps or progress to more advanced techniques.
Choir is open to students at any stage of their middle school journey, offering flexibility in participation.
Theatre classes focus on developing stage presence, confidence, clear speech, and an introduction to backstage elements. Musical Theatre emphasizes performance, blending acting and singing with kinesthetic learning through dance.
Middle school students have various performance opportunities, including participation in the ACSI band festivals, where the program has earned superior ratings in the past. Students also perform at the HG Christmas Chapel and other venues beyond school and church.
HIGH SCHOOL ARTS
High school performing arts classes are semester-long and progress at an advanced pace, integrating more complex concepts across various disciplines. Students engage in hands-on learning with a focus on performance, music analysis, and dance. Beyond performance, they are encouraged to explore the background and motivations behind the selected works of art, fostering a deeper understanding of their craft.
High school students have numerous opportunities to showcase their talents, participating in musicals, chapels, ACSI festivals, and performances at various external venues. Additionally, students may qualify for induction into prestigious organizations such as the Tri-M Music Honor Society and the Thespian Theatre Honors Society, recognizing their excellence in the arts.