Fine Arts

The Fine Arts Department consists of the following disciplines: Chorus, Dance, Drama, Instrumental Music and Visual Arts. Each arts discipline is committed to educating the individual student to develop his/her abilities fully through a sequential program which provides personal interaction with subject matter drawn from a broad scope of historical and cultural perspectives. The department’s primary concern is to give students tools for creating, analyzing, reflecting and communicating on verbal and nonverbal levels and for making informed, confident and critical choices.

Students acquire specific artistic, conceptual and analytical skills through an exploration of content using techniques and tools associated with the elements of each discipline. Through these experiences, students achieve a myriad of artistic, creative, analytical and personal goals. Ultimately, our students develop transferable skills that are not only applicable across these disciplines but become an integral part of their daily lives.

Acting&MuThea

Acting and Musical Theater is a course which combines theater training techniques and chorus. Students learn theater skills such as breath control, voice and diction, pantomime, blocking and memorization, stage combat and simple choreography which culminate in a fall dramatic presentation and a musical in the spring. The students also sing as a chorus, learning technique, range, and score reading. The students gain valuable performing experience presenting their musical production and singing as a vocal ensemble at events such as the Lower School Halloween parade, the Benjamin Hall All-School Holiday Concert, and the year-end concert in the Barker Performing Arts Center.

Placement in Musical Theater and Drama will be determined by the Fine Arts faculty.
Art 7

Students acquire specific artistic, conceptual and analytical skills through an exploration of content using techniques and tools associated with the elements and principles of design. Varied ideas and materials in two and three dimensional art provide students with opportunities for creativity, self-expression and individuality through independent learning, problem solving and risk taking. Through these experiences, students achieve specific artistic and personal goals. Ultimately, the students develop transferable skills that become an integral part of their daily lives.
Art 8

Students acquire specific artistic, conceptual and analytical skills through an exploration of content using techniques and tools associated with the elements and principles of design. Varied ideas and materials in two and three dimensional art provide students with opportunities for creativity, self-expression and individuality through independent learning, problem solving and risk taking. Through these experiences, students achieve specific artistic and personal goals. Ultimately, the students develop transferable skills that become an integral part of their daily lives.
Art Enrichment

Art Enrichment
Art Wheel

The wheel is so named, because 6th grade students, over the course of a year, study and experience the four aspects of Fine Arts (dance, drama, visual arts, and music) on a rotating turning wheel basis, and wheel performances feature all four aspects of this study.

During the 9-week dance wheel, students will develop an appreciation for the world of dance through the study of various styles, vocabulary, cultures, dance history, and artists within the ever changing dance world. Students will explore dance by participating in outlets such as technique classes, class discussions, performance critiques, journal writing, and a final performance in which they will have the opportunity to showcase their work.

The Drama Wheel is a one-quarter long course designed as an introduction to creative drama and performance theater. Students learn about techniques such as breathing exercises, voice & diction, theater games, pantomime, improvisation, and stage movement. As a class activity, the students and instructors write a themed play together, complete with costumes, lighting, sets, and props, culminating in a final production performed by the entire class, before a live audience on stage in the Barker Center.

The Visual Art wheel is designed to introduce art students to the meaning of art as the visual expression of an idea. Through a sequential series of both individual and group projects, students will utilize the Elements of Art (line, shape, color, texture, form, value and composition), to create two-and three-dimensional works. The primary focus is to deepen students’ observational and expressive skills through drawing from observation, analyzing and interpreting artwork in a variety of contexts, and extending their knowledge of both new and familiar media.

The sixth grade music wheel is about experiencing the art of vocal music. Musical pieces are selected to fit the individual theme of each quarter. Music reading, vocal skills and technique are emphasized. At the end of each quarter the students showcase their musical mastery in a performance.
Band 6 B

In 6th grade, band meets two days a week for a semester. Here, the class explores more advanced skills. Students study major scales and arpeggios, as well as more complex rhythmic notation. The semester culminates with a concert for the school and a concert for the parents. The 6th grade band class picks up where the students left off in 5th grade. Students, who are new to Benjamin and have not been studying an instrument, meet separately to select appropriate instruments and to receive information on where to rent or purchase the instrument.
Band 6 D

In 6th grade, band meets two days a week for a semester. Here, the class explores more advanced skills. Students study major scales and arpeggios, as well as more complex rhythmic notation. The semester culminates with a concert for the school and a concert for the parents. The 6th grade band class picks up where the students left off in 5th grade. Students, who are new to Benjamin and have not been studying an instrument, meet separately to select appropriate instruments and to receive information on where to rent or purchase the instrument.
Dance

To learn dance, one must dance. Participation is the key to a student’s successful progress in dance technique. This course is for the middle school student who would like to study the many different styles of dance. Students learn the history, vocabulary, and technique of dance forms as diverse as ballet, jazz and tap They have opportunities to view and critique dance works seen during field trips or in class video presentations. Students understand that dance is a way to create meaning by learning basic composition skills for choreography. Students demonstrate movement elements by performing in class, at school assemblies, and at outside concerts.
DanceWheel

The wheel is so named, because 6th grade students, over the course of a year, study and experience the four aspects of Fine Arts (dance, drama, visual arts, and music) on a rotating turning wheel basis, and wheel performances feature all four aspects of this study.

During the 9-week dance wheel, students will develop an appreciation for the world of dance through the study of various styles, vocabulary, cultures, dance history, and artists within the ever changing dance world. Students will explore dance by participating in outlets such as technique classes, class discussions, performance critiques, journal writing, and a final performance in which they will have the opportunity to showcase their work.

The Drama Wheel is a one-quarter long course designed as an introduction to creative drama and performance theater. Students learn about techniques such as breathing exercises, voice & diction, theater games, pantomime, improvisation, and stage movement. As a class activity, the students and instructors write a themed play together, complete with costumes, lighting, sets, and props, culminating in a final production performed by the entire class, before a live audience on stage in the Barker Center.

The Visual Art wheel is designed to introduce art students to the meaning of art as the visual expression of an idea. Through a sequential series of both individual and group projects, students will utilize the Elements of Art (line, shape, color, texture, form, value and composition), to create two-and three-dimensional works. The primary focus is to deepen students’ observational and expressive skills through drawing from observation, analyzing and interpreting artwork in a variety of contexts, and extending their knowledge of both new and familiar media.

The sixth grade music wheel is about experiencing the art of vocal music. Musical pieces are selected to fit the individual theme of each quarter. Music reading, vocal skills and technique are emphasized. At the end of each quarter the students showcase their musical mastery in a performance.
Drama

Middle School Drama is a wonderful opportunity for students to explore both the creative and the performance sides of the theater with the fundamental techniques of drama, such as breathing exercises, voice and diction, pantomime, improvisation, theater games, reader’s theater, monologues and dialogues. Middle school drama students take part in play readings, auditions, and rehearsals that include blocking and memorization, character study, play research, lighting, sound, costumes, props, sets and stage crew, in order to produce and perform a full-length two-act classic play.

Placement in Musical Theater and Drama will be determined by the Fine Arts faculty.
DramaWheel

The wheel is so named, because 6th grade students, over the course of a year, study and experience the four aspects of Fine Arts (dance, drama, visual arts, and music) on a rotating turning wheel basis, and wheel performances feature all four aspects of this study.

During the 9-week dance wheel, students will develop an appreciation for the world of dance through the study of various styles, vocabulary, cultures, dance history, and artists within the ever changing dance world. Students will explore dance by participating in outlets such as technique classes, class discussions, performance critiques, journal writing, and a final performance in which they will have the opportunity to showcase their work.

The Drama Wheel is a one-quarter long course designed as an introduction to creative drama and performance theater. Students learn about techniques such as breathing exercises, voice & diction, theater games, pantomime, improvisation, and stage movement. As a class activity, the students and instructors write a themed play together, complete with costumes, lighting, sets, and props, culminating in a final production performed by the entire class, before a live audience on stage in the Barker Center.

The Visual Art wheel is designed to introduce art students to the meaning of art as the visual expression of an idea. Through a sequential series of both individual and group projects, students will utilize the Elements of Art (line, shape, color, texture, form, value and composition), to create two-and three-dimensional works. The primary focus is to deepen students’ observational and expressive skills through drawing from observation, analyzing and interpreting artwork in a variety of contexts, and extending their knowledge of both new and familiar media.

The sixth grade music wheel is about experiencing the art of vocal music. Musical pieces are selected to fit the individual theme of each quarter. Music reading, vocal skills and technique are emphasized. At the end of each quarter the students showcase their musical mastery in a performance.
Fine Arts Wheel 6

The Fine Arts Wheel is so named, because 6th grade students, over the course of a year, study and experience the four aspects of Fine Arts (dance, drama, visual arts, and music) on a rotating turning wheel basis, and wheel performances feature all four aspects of this study.

During the 9-week dance wheel, students will develop an appreciation for the world of dance through the study of various styles, vocabulary, cultures, dance history, and artists within the ever changing dance world. Students will explore dance by participating in outlets such as technique classes, class discussions, performance critiques, journal writing, and a final performance in which they will have the opportunity to showcase their work.

The Drama Wheel is a one-quarter long course designed as an introduction to creative drama and performance theater. Students learn about techniques such as breathing exercises, voice & diction, theater games, pantomime, improvisation, and stage movement. As a class activity, the students and instructors write a themed play together, complete with costumes, lighting, sets, and props, culminating in a final production performed by the entire class, before a live audience on stage in the Barker Center.

The Visual Art wheel is designed to introduce art students to the meaning of art as the visual expression of an idea. Through a sequential series of both individual and group projects, students will utilize the Elements of Art (line, shape, color, texture, form, value and composition), to create two-and three-dimensional works. The primary focus is to deepen students’ observational and expressive skills through drawing from observation, analyzing and interpreting artwork in a variety of contexts, and extending their knowledge of both new and familiar media.

The sixth grade Music Wheel is about experiencing the art of vocal music. Musical pieces are selected to fit the individual theme of each quarter. Music reading, vocal skills and technique are emphasized. At the end of each quarter the students showcase their musical mastery in a performance.
Graphic Design

This course uses the computer as a medium of artistic expression. Students will use Adobe Photoshop as they focus on innovation, imagination, and the fundamentals of design. As part of their study of design elements such as color, movement, and shape language, students will create digital illustrations, logos, and complete design challenges. The course will also include a 3D design project using the Tinkercad program and MakerBot printers.
Middle School Band

This is an advanced band. The Performance Ensemble consists of students with two or more years of playing experience who have achieved an above-average playing level on their instruments. Performance Ensemble membership carries increased responsibilities and expectations. The course places emphasis on the continued development of fundamentals, technique, musicality, and ensemble skills. In addition to preparing for performances, band students also engage in the study of a variety of music topics: scale and chord construction, harmony, arranging, conducting, composition, and music history. Band students continue to further their playing skills by working on their technique, knowing all the scales, ear training, and playing challenging repertoire. Students in the Performance Ensemble will participate in the Solo & Ensemble Festival and All-District Band auditions.
MS Film/TV Production

This course will be divided into two areas: film production and television production. The first semester will focus on the discipline of filmmaking. The class will discuss film theory through the study of various films and film clips and talk about America’s film industry. Students will then learn the basic fundamentals of writing for the screen, the general techniques of film production (camera operation, lighting, etc.), post-production (Adobe Premiere Pro - professional non-linear digital editing software,) and the rudimentary artistic principles of the filmmaking process. The objective of the first half of the course is to produce an original short film using state-of-the-art tools, facilities, and expertise.

The focus will shift to television production during the second semester. Students will watch clips of news broadcasts and reporter pieces that will serve as examples of professional journalism. They will learn proper interviewing skills, write news pieces, and practice editing together news packages. Equipped with these techniques, the students will record footage of school events, deliver morning announcements, and create news packages for distribution to The Benjamin School community.

Prerequisite: Application materials for this course must be filled out with the instructor of record.
MS Strings

This course is open to all middle school students who currently play violin, viola, cello, string bass, or harp. The course is also open to beginners. This class provides the opportunity for students to advance their playing abilities through ensemble experience, individual, and small group lessons, and allows the opportunity for students to pursue additional performing experiences outside the classroom setting. Students have the opportunity to study a variety of musical styles ranging from classical to popular. The class will emphasize the development of technical/playing skills. Basic music history and theory is included. Strings class offers students the time and instruction to develop effective technique on their chosen instrument and to deepen their musical knowledge.
MusicWheel

The wheel is so named, because 6th grade students, over the course of a year, study and experience the four aspects of Fine Arts (dance, drama, visual arts, and music) on a rotating turning wheel basis, and wheel performances feature all four aspects of this study.

During the 9-week dance wheel, students will develop an appreciation for the world of dance through the study of various styles, vocabulary, cultures, dance history, and artists within the ever changing dance world. Students will explore dance by participating in outlets such as technique classes, class discussions, performance critiques, journal writing, and a final performance in which they will have the opportunity to showcase their work.

The Drama Wheel is a one-quarter long course designed as an introduction to creative drama and performance theater. Students learn about techniques such as breathing exercises, voice & diction, theater games, pantomime, improvisation, and stage movement. As a class activity, the students and instructors write a themed play together, complete with costumes, lighting, sets, and props, culminating in a final production performed by the entire class, before a live audience on stage in the Barker Center.

The Visual Art wheel is designed to introduce art students to the meaning of art as the visual expression of an idea. Through a sequential series of both individual and group projects, students will utilize the Elements of Art (line, shape, color, texture, form, value and composition), to create two-and three-dimensional works. The primary focus is to deepen students’ observational and expressive skills through drawing from observation, analyzing and interpreting artwork in a variety of contexts, and extending their knowledge of both new and familiar media.

The sixth grade music wheel is about experiencing the art of vocal music. Musical pieces are selected to fit the individual theme of each quarter. Music reading, vocal skills and technique are emphasized. At the end of each quarter the students showcase their musical mastery in a performance.
Strings 6

This course is open to all middle school students who currently play violin, viola, cello, string bass, or harp. The course is also open to beginners. This class provides the opportunity for students to advance their playing abilities through ensemble experience, individual, and small group lessons, and allows the opportunity for students to pursue additional performing experiences outside the classroom setting. Students have the opportunity to study a variety of musical styles ranging from classical to popular. The class will emphasize the development of technical/playing skills. Basic music history and theory is included. Strings class offers students the time and instruction to develop effective technique on their chosen instrument and to deepen their musical knowledge.

Middle School Curriculum

Explore Our Curriculum

Fine Arts

Acting&MuThea

Art 7

Art 8

Art Enrichment

Art Wheel

Band 6 B

Band 6 D

Dance

DanceWheel

Drama

DramaWheel

Fine Arts Wheel 6

Graphic Design

Middle School Band

MS Film/TV Production

MS Strings

MusicWheel

Strings 6

Department Faculty

Main Address & Lower/Middle School

Upper School