From First Notes to Standing Ovations - The Impact of the Arts in Middle School

For me, one of the greatest joys in leading our Middle School is seeing our students grow, explore and thrive across the many activities they take part in each day. Middle School at Wardlaw+Hartridge is designed to provide a wealth of opportunities for students to explore as they discover new passions and develop the interests and pursuits that will carry them forward to Upper School, college and beyond. Across academic disciplines, athletics and artistic endeavors, our students are tasked with not just trying but digging in deeply to new experiences. 

 

At this time of year, sandwiched between our annual fall musical production and fully immersed in dress rehearsals for our annual winter concert, I am always struck by the way in which the arts shape our students - not just as musicians or performers, but as thoughtful, confident young people. 

 

Our performing arts program is far more than an elective or extracurricular, relegated to early morning drop in sessions or requiring students to opt out of recess to participate as it is in so many neighboring schools. Here, all Middle School students participate in 200 minutes of band and choir each week ensuring that every child is immersed in rich, consistent musical instruction. This commitment to their musical education allows students to develop  technical skill and artistic expression while experiencing the joy of creating something together.

 

Similarly, one of the most anticipated traditions each year is our fall musical production. This year’s show, Matilda Jr., was incredible. With more than half of our Middle School participating either on stage or behind the scenes, it provided an incredible opportunity for every student to shine. Students acted, sang, danced, built sets, ran tech and supported one another behind the scenes, creating an environment where everyone’s contribution mattered. Watching students take the stage - nervous at first, then shining under the lights! - highlights just how transformative the arts can be for young people. Providing inclusive access to the arts creates an opportunity for our students to build authentic friendships, develop their confidence, and create lifelong memories.

 

For students eager for even more music, our Performing Arts Department offers robust opportunities in our Vocal Ensemble and Jazz Band programs. These musical groups offer advanced instruction and performance experience, including the chance to compete each year. In June each year, these groups participate in Music in the Parks at Dorney Park, where they perform for adjudicators, receive professional feedback and compete alongside ensembles from across the region. It’s an exciting milestone that gives students a sense of pride, purpose and accomplishment - and one where each year, their incredible performances are recognized in superior ratings and a variety of awards won. These experiences push students to stretch their abilities, support one another and discover what they can achieve through dedication and teamwork.

 

The impact of strong arts participation reaches far beyond Middle School. The depth and range of our Middle School music program serves as a natural feeder into our Upper School Conservatory Program, a new and unique opportunity which allows  students to continue to hone their craft in a pre-professional environment. Beginning with our first cohort this school year, the Conservatory Program provides W+H students with a dedicated performance or technical theatre program of study and a specialized designation on their diploma when they graduate.  We are thrilled and grateful for the ability to develop this exciting new initiative and provide yet another avenue for students to discover and hone their passion, ready to carry it onward to their lives beyond Wardlaw+Hartridge. 

 

Speaking of that passion: you are invited to witness it first hand at the Middle School Winter Concert! Our students have been rehearsing with focus and joy (no easy feat, just one week before Winter Break!) and they sound absolutely phenomenal. In the warmth of our choirs and the energy of our bands, you will be amazed by the polish, musicality and heart our young musicians bring to the stage. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season and to experience the magic that happens when students are given the space and support to grow artistically. I hope to see you there!