At First Montessori, all students are given the opportunity to regularly participate in Fine Arts activities which are integrated with classroom study.
This practice enriches their classroom experiences through individual expression in music and visual arts. As key members of our faculty, our Art Specialist and Music Director incorporate their lessons both directly, through periodic in-class lessons, and indirectly, by serving as resources to teachers. The level of interaction with these specialists varies by education level.
Art instruction encourages creative expression and is often incorporated into research projects by students’ individual work in the Art Studio. A variety of mediums are studied, including photography, pottery, mosaics and watercolors.
Music education includes both the study of genres and composers, as well as the instruction of rhythms, tones and learning to play a variety of instruments. The Upper Elementary curriculum includes violin lessons taught using the Suzuki method. In addition to their weekly experiences, Elementary students perform an annual Opera. Our annual International Day program is a celebration of music and cultures from around the world.
The essential ingredient for a successful Fine Arts Program in a Montessori school is its integration into the regular Montessori curriculum. Art and music must be related to the work the children do in the classroom in order for it to be a meaningful experience. The Montessori curriculum stresses the interconnectedness of all things, including art and music. For instance, in studying any subject, an art or music project could be developed to help the students more fully understand and experience the subject matter.
After experiencing the integration of fine arts in the Elementary program, Middle School students receive formal instruction in music and art history. These classes accompany lessons in rhythm and reading music as well as techniques and fundamentals in art. Students perform at annual school events and pursue creative expression during art studio on a weekly basis.