Arts

The Dent Difference

Focused Spaces, Big Passion

The arts are central to how students learn and grow. This difference is reflected in our belief that creativity, imagination, and problem-solving are key to a life well lived.

The Mildred H. Dent Fine Arts Center is at the heart of this work. The Dent Gallery and studios showcase student and professional exhibitions, while our new Valerie M. Barnet Theatre supports performances and large-scale student productions that showcase public speaking. Our Music programs fill our campus from the tiniest voices to the pomp and circumstance of graduation. Through art, theatre, and music, students develop a voice and discover how to collaborate and communicate in academic settings beyond the traditional classroom.

The power of art builds connections and sparks big passion 2’s-12th

Program Highlights

Theatre

Engaging with Theatre, whether as a participant or an audience member, students are taught that knowledge and appreciation of theatre is an enriching life experience. Middle and Upper School students have the opportunity to join Griffin Theatre and/or take a course in theatre arts. The courses are designed to provide an overview of theatre as an art form: its elements, genres, styles, and techniques. GriffinTheatre (7th-12th) introduces students to a variety of theatre exercises and workshops, and puts on a fall play and spring musical productions each year, while Jr. Griffin Theatre (2nd-6th) produces one show in the winter.

Our commitment to theatre arts enriches the school community and cultivates a deeper appreciation for the performing arts.

Band

Middle and Upper School students can choose to participate in award-winning concert bands, jazz bands and smaller chamber groups. These ensembles perform at local, state, and regional festivals and competitions where they have consistently been awarded excellent and superior ratings.

Students are exposed to instrumental music as early as fifth grade when they begin learning fundamentals and choose from a variety of woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Students who play orchestral instruments are invited to play in the concert band. AP Music Theory is offered to 11th and 12th Grade students on an every other year rotation.

The discipline and creativity of studying music are a joyful quest that gives students lifelong skills.

Visual Arts

Visual Arts classes engage students in all aspects of visual expression: creation, art history, aesthetics, and art criticism.

We seek to convince all students of their creative potential as intelligent viewers, perceptive critics, and sensitive interpreters of the arts, in addition to providing students a nurturing environment in which to produce art. It is our view that all areas of study profit from lively, creative vision and imagination. Giving our students age appropriate lessons with art materials, tools, techniques, and experiences with creative explorations allows students to develop this valuable part of becoming productive human beings.

Visual arts instruction begins in Preschool, progresses through Middle School, and continues as an elective through grade 12. AP studio art and AP art history are offered for our students seeking a challenge.

Music

Our music program begins with our youngest Griffins in the 2s and continues through 4th Grade. Early on, students are introduced to essential musical elements such as beat, rhythm, and melody. They also explore a variety of pitched and unpitched instruments, learn folk dances, and develop basic vocal skills. These musical learning experiences help foster creativity and instill self-confidence. Our students are proud to showcase their talents in both winter and spring concerts, as well as our Grandparents & Special Friends Day performances.

The love for music we instill in these youngest Griffins prepares them for a lifelong journey in the fine arts.

Private Instruction

Our Music program also offers personalized private instruction tailored to meet individual student needs and aspirations. Beginning at an early age, students can enroll in one-on-one sessions with our experienced instructors who specialize in piano, voice, and various instruments. Through private lessons, students can deepen their musical skills and advance on their instrument. Students are able to refine their technique and musicality with the support and expert feedback from their teacher.