Fine Arts

This course provides all students with instruction in fundamental music concepts such as rhythm, melody, harmony, and form. Beginning in Montessori and Kindergarten, students are introduced to basic musical ideas through singing, movement, listening, and exploration. As students progress into Lower School (Grades 1–4) and Middle School, instruction advances to include reading music, learning about instruments, and playing them both individually and in groups.

Each class functions as a performance group, with the goal of helping students develop comfort and confidence in performing for one another and for an audience. Through regular performance practice, students build confidence, strengthen public speaking skills, and are encouraged to participate in school musical productions. Class time is also used to prepare for annual programs and performances, including the Christmas program, Grandparents’ Day, school liturgies, and other events. All programs are expected to be fully memorized, with movement choreographed when appropriate. Students learn music for Mass and develop an appreciation for a variety of musical styles, including classical, jazz, contemporary, and musical theatre.

The Middle School Choir is a select ensemble of students who demonstrate commitment, musicianship, and a passion for choral performance. This group serves an important role in the life of the school by providing music for school Masses, while also representing the school through performances both on and off campus. Through rehearsals and performances, students refine vocal technique, blend, and musical expression, while gaining experience singing a varied and meaningful repertoire. Participation in choir fosters confidence, discipline, collaboration, and a deeper appreciation for the sacred and artistic traditions of choral music.

In Lower School, students explore the fundamentals of theater, including character creation, story development, and basic theater terminology. Second and third graders begin to understand character traits, archetypes, and the importance of storytelling, while gradually incorporating costumes, props, sets, and basic critique techniques. Fourth graders deepen their self-expression and self-identity, exploring social issues through performance and reflecting on their growth as performers. Through all activities, students build confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills in a supportive, risk-friendly environment.

Middle School students build on earlier theater experiences, developing strong characters, addressing meaningful community issues, and integrating design elements such as sets, costumes, and props. They practice careful and constructive critique, refine collaborative storytelling, and gain practical performance skills. Participation in Rosarian’s two annual productions, a fall play for grades five through eight and a spring musical for grades two through eight, allows students to apply classroom learning in real-world settings, while collaborating across grades to foster creativity, commitment, empathy, and community.

For students seeking deeper engagement, Theater Arts electives provide opportunities to explore advanced performance techniques, stagecraft, and production skills. These electives allow students to refine their acting, directing, and design abilities while gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of theater production. Students learn to work independently and collaboratively on complex projects, further developing problem-solving skills, creativity, and confidence. Electives also offer a pathway for students considering performing arts high schools or advanced theater programs, giving them the tools, experience, and mindset to succeed in more specialized environments.