The Primary Years Programme Level (K-5)

Learners practice a wide variety of musical instruments during their formative years as they explore musical theory. In addition to building a fundamental understanding of musical theory, all Lower School learners participate in chorus, theatre, puppetry arts, and more. Like the comprehensive curriculum itself, the PYP performing arts are designed to develop a well-rounded appreciation of music and vocal instruction. Moreover, Lower School performing arts are vital to Praise and Worship culture. Psalm 100 instructs believers to “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.”

The Middle Years Program facilities the exploration of music theory and the performing arts with a four-tier approach:

• Violin

Benefits to learning the violin include improved memory and attention span, boosted mental and emotional health, increased social skills, improved physical posture, and enhanced sensory development. The above development needs often go neglected in a digital age that is dominated by smartphones and tablets.

• The Upper School Chorus

The Choral Music program is designed to enhance the musical, creative and expressive qualities of all students.  Musical opportunities are provided for every child to learn the basic skills of singing, playing, and reading music, developing song repertoire, broadening listening skills, and experiencing the interrelated nature of music with other cultures and content areas. The Upper School Chorus class is designed for students to apply musical skills as they continue to create and experience music as a musical ensemble. Choral students lead Chapel and Prayer Buddies services.

• Acting

This course introduces and provides experience in all aspects of theatre arts. Students study basic principles of acting including character analysis, textual interpretation, voice, movement, collaboration, improvisation, and critical analysis of performance. Additionally, students gain a working knowledge of theatre history and the multiple forms of theatrical performance, as well as the technical aspects of theater and theatrical design. Special emphasis is placed on theatrical vocabulary and codes of conduct, as well as the creation, production, direction of monologues and scenes.  Each Spring, students deliver a musical performance that incorporates all facets of theatre and music theory.

• Individualized Specializations

Learners who specialize in specific musical instruments may spend a portion of their performing arts course time in pursuit of mastery. Williamsburg Christian Academy’s Upper School music practice rooms enable space for individualized instrument exploration and mastery. Learners who specialize in specific instruments host an annual concert and participate in WCA’s musical production each Spring.

Although learners may participate in MYP offerings during the Diploma Years, the DP musical experience promotes an intense level of musical analysis and examination. Involving aspects of the composition, performance, and critical analysis of music, the HL Music course exposes students to forms, styles, and functions of music from a wide range of historical and socio-cultural contexts. Students create, participate in, and reflect upon music from their own background and those of others. They develop practical and communicative skills which provide them with the opportunity to engage in music for further study, as well as for lifetime enjoyment.