Performing Arts

The inclusion of performing arts in education provides students with the opportunity to engage the mind and body in creative communication. The goal of this department is to expose all students to a curricula that is historically based and will allow them to explore a variety of cultures and perspectives, creating a life-long interest in and appreciation for the performing arts.  Student in performing arts programs gain language, communication skills, and improved self-expression and confidence. It is our goal to encourage collaboration, critical reflection, and an understanding of the creative process.

The Jersey City Performing Arts Department offers classes in Music, Theatre and Dance.

Curriculum Overview

Grades K - 4

Students in grades 1 through 4 will be able to identify the basic elements of music and theatre while using improvisation and hands-on experience for discovery in the performing arts. Students are expected to understand how performing artists and their works are affected by the culture surrounding them, and begin to recognize significant works and their creators. Students will also gain the ability to differentiate between basic structures of composition across a variety of genres and forms.

Grades 6 - 8

Students in grades 6 through 8 will be able to respond to and interpret a variety of works and  productions. They will analyze the usage of a artistic elements in examples from different time periods and cultures. Through exposure and discussion, students will gain the ability to compare and contrast different styles of composition and performance.  Students at this level will also have the opportunity to experience collaborating in small and/or large group performances with their peers. Students will be aided in identifying the responsibilities and necessary skills for performing arts auditions and a variety of performing arts careers to prepare them for the decisions that lie ahead.

Grades 9 - 12

Students in grades 9 through 12 will be able to explain the use of different artistic structures, forms, narratives and mediums. They will gain the ability to analyze examples of history’s influence on the performing arts and the performing arts’ influence on history through in-depth exploration. Students will be expected to examine the effects of artistic elements on the composition, the performer(s), and the audience. Students will also analyze and explore societal issues (i.e. ethnicity, gender, politics, etc.) evident in performance examples. Student will have the opportunity to further participate in the application of the elements of music, theatre and/or dance through personal experience in performing ensembles.

Course Offerings

In addition to their regularly scheduled Music or Theatre classes, students in grades K - 8 have the opportunity to participate in their school’s extra-curricular ensembles.  

• These may include:
• Choir
• Band
• school plays and musicals
• Little Kids Rock

Performing Arts Courses/Ensembles in grades 9 - 12 include:

• AP Music Theory
• Choral Music
• Communication and Music Technology
• Exploring Music
• Instrumental Music/Band
• Keyboard Methods
• Intro to Dance
• Dance Ensemble

District Programs

JCArts

The Jersey City Arts program allows students the opportunity to further pursue their interests in Instrumental Music, Vocal Music or Theatre. These programs are housed at Ferris High School and Snyder High School and can be accessed while attending any high school in the district. The courses are taught by accomplished performing artists and offer students expert instruction and hands-on experience.  Students are accepted through application: interview and audition, only.

For further information please contact the department supervisor.

Dance SLC

This intensive program allows students the opportunity to further pursue their interest in Dance.   This programs is housed exclusively at Snyder High School. The courses are taught by accomplished performing artists, and offer students expert instruction and hands-on experience.  Students are accepted through application: interview and audition, only.

Student Opportunities

Teen ArtsStudents are selected by their high school performing arts teachers for participation in Hudson County and NJ State Teen Arts.

Resources

Performing Arts Benefits Kids	Sustainability STEAM Challenge	Performing Arts Curriculum Standards