The Arts (music, movement and visual art) play an integral role in the Corlears curriculum in their own right and as they enrich other areas of study.

In addition to helping students develop artistic techniques and specific skills teachers will work collaboratively to provide students with opportunities to express their understanding of humanities topics through various art mediums and modes of participation. Students will visit museums and other cultural institutions in NYC to broaden and deepen their appreciation and understanding of the Arts.

Visual Arts

The visual arts are integrated into every classroom and all students spend structured time in the art studio as well. The atelier offers an abundance of art supplies and materials gathered and presented in a way that inspires creativity. It provides students with a place to experiment with those materials and to become immersed in an environment brimming with art and objects which stir the imagination. The goal of the studio program is to help students build independence and confidence in the use of a wide range of materials and techniques used for self expression. Student work is displayed prominently throughout the school building with an emphasis on process rather than product.

Music

Students of every age develop musical and social skills through singing, playing games, participating in movement activities and playing instruments. Our intention is for children to develop a lifelong capacity for the enjoyment of music and the ability to expand that interest independently and in collaboration with others as they grow. Children build a repertoire of nursery rhymes, songs and poems during music time and have a chance to compose music of their own. Orff instruments and techniques are used to help children develop a keen understanding of tone, rhythm and melody as the fundamental building blocks for music making. Music, songs, movement and dance that relate to the core curriculum are also integrated to broaden a child’s appreciation of different cultures or traditions. Beginning at age four, all students have an opportunity to sing in a chorus.

Movement

All students engage in some form of physical activity each day. The yard and gym provide space for the youngest children to hone large and small motor skills, strengthen muscle tone, develop eye-hand coordination and practice cooperation skills through games and activities designed to promote body/space awareness. Beginning at age six, students also take movement classes with a specialist trained in dance and choreography. The course extends over a period of six months. They explore the use of their bodies as tools for artistic expression. They learn a variety of movement methods and techniques and have opportunities to choreograph their own pieces as well. The original work often relates in lovely and unexpected ways to broader themes explored in the core curriculum. In the spring the 8/9s visit the Merce Cunningham dance studio to watch professional dancers in action, take a workshop with a member of the company, and to get a glimpse of the process involved in preparing for a professional dance performance.