Arts preview for 2024-2025
Gordon’s arts faculty are excited to begin working with your children in September! In addition to the robust visual and performing arts classes that run throughout the school day for all grade levels, Gordon continues to offer rich co-curricular experiences, both during and after school. Here is an overview of our offerings for music ensembles, after school theater, visual art exhibition, and special arts programming. Opportunities may be added as the year unfolds, so stay tuned for special announcements!
Music ensembles
Formal music ensembles in Middle School are offered through the arts electives program, these include Choral Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, and Band. Electives begin at the start of the school year and meet throughout the schedule rotation, with grades seven and eight combined. Fifth and Sixth Grade Choral and Percussion Ensembles will begin later in the year, also meeting during the school day through club offerings. Ensemble participants at all Middle School grade levels are expected to celebrate their learning in culminating concert events. Younger students will also showcase their music learning by grade level concerts and gatherings throughout the year. Please note the Gordon School calendar for the latest information on concerts and gatherings – these are joyful experiences for performers and audiences alike!
G-Notes
G-Notes continues this year as our auditioned a cappella ensemble. Any student entering sixth, seventh or eighth grade who is willing to meet the challenges of this style of singing is welcome to audition; students who have been part of the group do not need to re-audition. Separate information on the audition process is at www.gordonschool.org/gnotes
All State ensembles
The opportunity for seventh and eighth grade students to audition for All State music ensembles will be available again this year. As always, participation is contingent on a student’s participation in at least one Gordon music ensemble, whether it is Band, Percussion Ensemble, Choral Ensemble, or G-Notes. Sign up information will be posted as it becomes available.
Private music lessons
After school music lessons will continue on campus this year. Please see www.gordonschool.org/musiclessons for further information on instruments and instructors.
No Fear Friday
The Eighth Grade Arts Council will continue to run No Fear Friday Open Mic Nights throughout the year. All of Middle School is invited to sign up to share their short-form staged performances. From live music to puppetry to comedic skits, any type of performing arts is welcome. As the dates approach, we will publish sign-ups and guidelines for participating as a performer or audience member, stay tuned!
The annual schoolwide art show
One of Gordon’s most beloved traditions is our annual school wide art show. Featuring art from every grade level at Gordon, this annual exhibition demonstrates the power of self-expression and the joy of creation. The art show will take place in the Wales Theater in March, transforming our black box theater into an art gallery for one full week, and opens in conjunction with conference day.
The Britt Nelson Visiting Artist
The Britt Nelson Visiting Artist Residency is a three week program where an artist spends time with our students and community, sharing their art and creative process. Students work alongside the artist to create art, gaining firsthand experience of what it is like to be a working artist and learning about the inspiration and motivation behind their work. Stay tuned for the highly anticipated announcement of this year’s Britt Nelson Visiting Artist!
Theater
After school theater will continue throughout the year. All are welcomed to audition for their respective grade level division, and all will be cast. The work will be creative, child-centered, and celebrated! Rehearsals run Monday through Thursday from dismissal to 5:00pm, with three culminating performances throughout the year.
Middle School fall play
Open to fifth through eighth grade
Auditions will be held in September
Third and fourth grade musical
Open to third and fourth grade
Auditions will take place before winter break
Middle School musical
Open to fifth through eighth grade
Rehearsals will begin after spring break
The arts at Gordon School continue with vibrant and vital programming that seeks to engage students and ignite passion. Please reach out to any of the arts faculty with questions or concerns. We look forward to welcoming your children back to school!