Serving Preschool Through 8th Grade in the San Francisco East Bay Since 1962
Middle School: 6-8
Music & Performing Arts
In this class, we study music, art, drama, speech and debate, technology, film, photography, and media literacy, and learn how all of these media fit together into an artistic, cohesive whole.
Did you know?
In the most recent Parent Satisfaction Survey, 99% of Seven Hills parents say they are very satisfied with the Middle School's Performing Arts.
Unlocking Creative Potential
In our Middle School Performing Arts program, students explore their creativity through music and theater, with classes co-taught by our talented music and theater educators, Lucas Chen and Amber Hughes. These classes are designed to inspire and challenge each student, fostering both technical proficiency and artistic expression.
Performing Arts
Performing Arts classes offer a space for students to discover and nurture their creative, imaginative, and inventive sides. With smaller class sizes, students can focus on honing their skills in dramatic techniques, music theory, and ensemble performance. Our project-based curriculum invites students to engage in a range of artistic disciplines, from drama and speech to music and dance, film, and audio and visual skills. Through these interdisciplinary experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of how various art forms come together as well as a deeper, more informed appreciation for the arts!
Our curriculum integrates with the broader Middle School experience. By 8th grade, students are fully immersed in the performing arts, preparing to perform scenes at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland. Upon returning, they dive deeper into performance, learning dance, vocal techniques, instrumental music, and even foreign languages as part of their preparation for their cultural exchange to Japan in February.
Throughout the year, students have numerous performance opportunities to showcase their talents in both formal and informal settings. Our state-of-the-art theater provides a professional platform where students can perform, helping to develop their confidence, character, and self-esteem. These live performances foster a sense of courage, fearlessness, and a lifelong love for the arts.
Music Program
Music is vital to our students' experience, with classes offered twice a week. During their music block, students can choose from distinct music paths:
- String Orchestra
Open to all Middle School students, the orchestra brings together students at varying skill levels, from beginners to more advanced players. The goal is to create music through individual practice, musicianship, and collaboration. Students also have opportunities to perform for their peers and at school-wide events throughout the year. - Choir
Designed to introduce students to vocal music, choral singing, and music theory, choir helps students develop vocal skills and teamwork. Rehearsals, in-class performances, and music activities build their love for singing and performing. - Digital Music
In Digital Music, students learn to create, edit, and produce their own music using cutting-edge sound editing software. - Rhythm and Percussion
Students will explore the world of rhythm through a variety of instruments, including congas, tambourines, and bells. They will learn essential techniques for hand drumming, stick drumming, and body percussion while developing a strong sense of timing, coordination, and musical expression. They will practice playing in an ensemble, experiment with creating rhythms, and gain a deeper understanding of how percussion drives and enhances music.
As our program grows, we plan to introduce additional music classes, workshops, and lessons, offering students even more opportunities to explore their musical interests during the music block.
The Seven Hills School
975 North San Carlos Drive
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
P | (925) 933-0666
E | info@sevenhillsschool.org
F | (925) 933-6271
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
P | (925) 933-0666
E | info@sevenhillsschool.org
F | (925) 933-6271
