PNA focuses on educating the entire student and the Performing Arts Department contributes to that goal by developing an understanding and appreciation of the arts that will last far beyond the student’s years at PNA.
Students have the opportunity to become exceptional learners in the area of music through classroom activities that engage their bodies, minds, and spirits. As independent thinkers, they develop an understanding of musical concepts while learning the importance of music in different times and cultures. All grade levels enjoy opportunities to demonstrate what they have learned at a number of performances throughout the year. This year's events include the Winter Concert, the Brown Bag lunch concerts, and the Spring Musical.
In the lower school, students explore ways to create and appreciate all kinds of music. Some of the skills they develop include:
Grades 1 through 5 meet twice a week in 45-minute classes. The EK and K meet twice a week for 30-minute classes. The curriculum incorporates aspects of the Orff-Shulwerk method and the Kodaly Approach, as well as numerous sources that reinforce the key concepts of musical awareness.
