Arts - Lakeside School

Middle School

Lakeside Middle School students get to explore a range of art forms with dedicated teachers who encourage risk-taking and personal growth. Every student takes both a visual art class and a performing art class each year. Classes are experiential and designed to teach students to become creative thinkers and doers. In addition to arts classes, student groups like Art Club and Builder’s Guild provide ways for students to explore their creativity.

Middle School visual arts classes are grade-based and grow more sophisticated and challenging as students mature. Students engage in drawing, printmaking, painting, sculpture, ceramics, and felting. Teachers incorporate art forms from around the world and provide context for learning about different cultures and artistic traditions. Visual arts classes take place twice a week, and the studios are popular places for students to spend free time and lunch periods. Rotating displays of student artwork are exhibited throughout the building.

Music and drama courses are accessible and engaging for both beginners and seasoned performers. Every 5th grader takes a yearlong orchestra course, in which students learn to play a string instrument. Starting in 6th grade, students can choose between yearlong classes in band, choir, drama, or orchestra. Performing arts courses occur four times a week; 8th graders may also audition for a drama production that rehearses after school. Private music lessons for voice and instruments are available after school and during free periods; financial aid is available for private lessons. Learn more about the arts offerings at the Middle School on our arts overview page, and find program specifics on pages for drama, music, and the visual arts.

Student Voices

I see creating as a form of relaxation. Because of my art classes, I have time during the school day where I can relax fully.– Ai-Li H. '22

Upper School

Choice and exploration define Upper School students’ experiences in the arts. In classes and through the co-curricular program, students develop their creative potential, connect with others who share their interests, and learn how to transform an idea into a work of art that can be shared with the world.

Students can choose among a wide variety of classes, as well as the level of engagement they’d like to pursue. Lakeside students have gone on to focus on the arts in selective programs at the Julliard School, New York University, and Rhode Island School of Design; many others find that their arts experience provided them with an opportunity to explore something new in a low-pressure environment.

There are lots of ways to be involved in the arts at Lakeside. Performances, gallery openings, and showcases are scheduled throughout the year, and are open to all members of the community. In additional to formal music groups, student-organized music groups ranging from a cappella to jazz to hip hop perform on campus for special events. Two of the five drama productions every year have open auditions. Two- and three-dimensional artwork is displayed throughout campus. And every spring, Arts Fest brings together students, families, faculty, staff, and alumni to celebrate the visual and performing arts programs at Lakeside.

Learn more about the arts offerings at the Upper School on our arts overview page, and find program specifics on pages for drama, music, and the visual arts.