Young minds are perfectly attuned to learning through creating. Whether it is with crayons or clay, fingerpaint or found objects, kindergartners will get to express their creativity through a variety of mediums while also learning about patterns and shapes, stenciling and collage-making. Hands-on learning through the arts opens up the wonder and possibility we’ll continue to nurture in our arts programing as your child grows.

Musically, kindergartners will discover rhythm and tempo across various notes and beats. And they will get to express themselves through music classes that will culminate in an annual concert for parents. The joyous noise and appreciation for music, singing and performance we foster early will afford greater exploration of the musical arts as they progress through the Lower School.

Imagination. Invention. And the impossibilities borne of small hands. These are the creative desires many children have as they put pen to paper or brush to canvas with delight – and it’s a reminder that every child is an artist in their own way.

It is that joy of creating that we foster and encourage across a number of artistic disciplines and activities in Lower School art classes. By shining a light on the great masterworks and contemporary artists, our arts faculty teach not only form and function, but also how art is part of God’s grand design and its beauty enriches what it means to be human.

Art also takes on meaning for all Lower School students through a rich tapestry of music. We help build an awareness of the cultural importance music provides, while also engaging them in vocal worship to glorify God. Through music appreciation and participation, students can find and define their own musical interests. By third grade, students can participate with the string orchestra, and by sixth grade, pursue band and a broader selection of instruments to learn. These are opportunities designed to discover and hone musical talent while also nurturing the discipline and dedication to realize success, which carries over into other aspects of life.

Our seventh- and eighth-grade students begin learning new forms, tools, and techniques to enhance the work they make, and their overall artistic experience. Here, free-form creativity meets the disciplines of design to open up entirely new worlds for discovery in the visual arts. Style, voice and how to interpret art are all part of a critical evaluation – and self-evaluation – of art by our emerging artists. For those with the desire to perform, there’s an audition that awaits.

Our seventh- and eighth-grade produce their own theatre productions, which provides exposure to new artistic disciplines as they learn lines, stage presence, and time management habits that will prove beneficial long after the curtain goes down.

Our musically and vocally talented students will find their place in one of our grade-based bands, the honors band, orchestra, or choir. All of these musical endeavors provide opportunities for our students to step into the spotlight and discover the chemistry and reward of performing as one.

Whether the desire is to be a professional artist or simply a one-time participant, our vibrant arts program is a cornerstone of the WC experience that is encouraging and welcoming to all students.

Our visual arts program hits full throttle in the Upper School, providing our visual artists with the space and tools – both tactile and digital – to produce. They experience field trips, art service projects, and recurring student art shows. With faculty guidance, students also contemplate the meaning of art and its purpose in society, how it can communicate, touch people, and convey meaning across every artistic medium.

Our musical and vocal music programing offers an astounding 15 options for students, ranging from jazz, pep, and concert bands to a number of choirs and ensembles. These performers also compete in statewide competitions and assemble seasonal and special performances for the community.

From bit parts to leading roles, performing in any of the four theatrical productions is open to any student regardless of experience. Produced seasonally means artists, athletes, and students with other commitments can consider a production at a time of year that works for them.

It is here, in the arts, that student outcomes surprisingly exceed expectations.Numerous WC alumni have gone on to launch successful and highly visible artistic careers after finding their voice on our stage or felt their calling in our studio space. It is why we don’t see the “extra” in our co-curriculars, but instead choose to see the potential they offer our students.