THE ARTS
The arts at Rumsey Hall are structured to enable students to
find self-expression through a variety of activities and media.
All students participate in art and music classes. In addition,
there are clubs and activities which allow students to expand
their interests or focus on a particular area. The art center
is open throughout the day for students to use during study
halls or free periods. Student art work is regularly displayed
on campus and occasionally at local art galleries. Student musicians
may arrange practice time through the music teacher and lessons
can be arranged for some instruments.
The school chorus, The Clef Club, is open to all interested
students. The chorus performs five or six times during the year.
Student musicians also perform at these times. The Lower School
produces an original opera annually. In the Upper School there
are major drama productions in the fall and winter, including
one musical. There is a school-wide variety show in the spring.
At various times during the school year performers from outside
the school share their talents with the school community to
provide entertainment and spark interest. Drama presentations,
dance troupes, mimes, vocal groups and instrumentalists are
examples of recent performers who have visited the campus. Student
trips off campus are also organized to supplement and enrich
the curriculum in the arts.
Art
Goals and Overview
The goals of the Art Department are the enhancement of self-confidence
and creative thinking through the understanding and application
of various art concepts and medias.
The course offerings at Rumsey stress discovery and self expression
through media ranging from two-dimensional options, such as
painting, drawing and printmaking to three-dimensional possibilities
including clay, woodcarving, and various forms of multi-media
construction.
In addition to art trips to such places as Storm King Sculpture
Center and various museums in New York City, there are continuous
displays of student work around the campus. A select art group
meets one afternoon per week, as an art club, where students
may pursue more intensive projects, begin portfolio preparation
and participate in numerous visits to art shows, artists' studios
and other art related activities.
Music
Goals and Overview
The music program is designed to introduce and expose students
to a variety of musical experiences aimed at encouraging skill
development and self-confidence in participation. Students
who come to Rumsey with considerable background and proficiency
on a particular instrument are encouraged to continue their
studies and to share their talents with the student body during
special programs.
The Lower School meets for two periods of general music a
week and one additional period for Lower School chorus. The
Music Connection textbook is used during class in addition
to Orff instruments and other classroom instruments. The first
form is introduced to the soprano recorder. Dramatic experiences
in the form of musical plays and original opera are also included
in the curriculum.
Upper School students have a choice of two course offerings:
(1) a General Music class that meets twice a week for a portion
of the year. Fourth and Fifth Form students meet for one half
of the school year and Sixth Form students meet for one third
of the school year. This course uses The Music Connection
textbook designed for each grade level. It includes listening
experiences, work with the Orff instruments and singing experience.
(2) Chorus (Clef Club) is also offered. Students may opt to
participate for half of the school year or for the entire
school year. They meet twice a week with their grade level
and once a week as an ensemble with all grade levels. This
is the performing vocal group that presents programs at Parents'
Weekends and is featured in a winter concert and at graduation
ceremonies.
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