FINE ARTS

Building fundamentals and instilling an appreciation of art are the main objectives for the FHPS elementary art program. Every week elementary students are given the opportunity to create and explore through different art mediums.

Creating an appreciation and developing a knowledge of music, instruments, and movement are core to the elementary music experience. The students are encouraged to create, collaborate, communicate, and think critically while developing a knowledge of music. Every week FHPS elementary students are given the opportunity to experience music in a classroom setting. Once a year (if not more) each student is given the opportunity to perform in a music program.

Sixth grade students are given the exciting opportunity to learn how to play a stringed instrument—band instrument or begin vocal training. Students will build on their general music knowledge by learning to read music and advanced rhythms. When students join the FHPS music program at the start of their sixth grade year, they benefit from our beginner-friendly instruction and commitment to the FHPS tradition of excellence. They are also given opportunities to show off their new skills during several performances throughout the year.

Sixth grade students are given the exciting opportunity to learn how to play a stringed instrument or band instrument. Students will build on their general music knowledge by learning to read music and advanced rhythms. When students join the FHPS music program at the start of their sixth grade year, they benefit from our beginner-friendly instruction and commitment to the FHPS tradition of excellence. They are also given opportunities to show off their new skills during several performances throughout the year.

The 6th grade music program is available to any interested 6th grader in the Forest Hills Public School District. This program is an exceptional opportunity for students offering specific instruction on their chosen instrument, or voice as well as universal musical concepts and skills. The program stresses the collaborative cooperation and teamwork necessary for group success. This program is also the gateway to the exceptional band, choir and orchestra programs at middle school and high school level. Most importantly, it’s fun!

Our program inspires each student to find an artistic voice. Students are encouraged to embrace their creativity and explore a wide variety of media as they learn the foundations of visual expression.

In Middle School Band, students have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument by enrolling in 7th and 8th grade Band. Band, students have the opportunity to advance their skills as individuals, and perform many styles of music as members of the full band. There are also multiple opportunities for involvement with honor bands, chamber ensembles and solos, and jazz band. Instruments in the band include flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion. A family atmosphere, collaborative teamwork, and a collective aim for excellence are pillars of the FHPS bands.

Middle school choir at FHPS is a very open, engaging experience with collaboration with other schools and the community. All students are welcome and can find a home within the choir programs. Students have the opportunity to participate in multiple ensembles (at varying levels) that are individual and unique to each school.

In Middle School Orchestra, students advance their skills as individual musicians and collaborate as a team to play a variety of musical styles. There are many performance as well as social opportunities.

Creativity, personal expression, and a lifelong appreciation of art are nurtured and celebrated in our visual arts program. We inspire students to take creative risks and develop their artistic voices. Students are able to explore a wide variety of media while focusing on the technical skills and problem-solving techniques necessary to create successful works of art.

High school band courses allow students who have previous experience on a band instrument to continue their musical study in ability-based ensembles. An increased focus on performance is a highlight for many in the band program. Numerous curricular, enrichment, and honor-based opportunities are available, including district and state festivals, district and state honor bands, university honor bands, jazz band, marching band, pep band, chamber ensembles, and many more! A family atmosphere, collaborative teamwork, and a collective aim for excellence are pillars of the FHPS bands.

There is a place for EVERYONE in high school choir in FHPS. Students have the opportunity to participate in Chorale, Women’s Choir, Concert Choir, Chamber Choir and Vocal Jazz . Each choir performs a variety of music from all periods and genres and participates in at least four concerts per year. Students regularly collaborate with other schools and professionals in the choral field and have the opportunity to present concerts throughout the area.

High School Orchestra programs provide an opportunity for those students who have played a string instrument through middle school to further their musical growth. There are 2 orchestra classes, each geared to provide instruction at various technique levels for all instruments. Symphonic Orchestra is the most advanced ensembles. Membership is by audition only and open to grades 10-12. Concert Orchestra is for students grade 9-12 grade. All ensembles perform a variety of music from all periods and genres giving regular concert throughout the school year.

Our theatre programs at FHPS provide the opportunity for students to grow and flourish as performers, technicians, and designers. Our programs are designed to facilitate all students advocating for their passion and love of theatre through productions and competitive performances.