Performing Arts

In ECC, students have multiple music classes per week. Students have a multi-sensory experience, focusing on singing, playing instruments and movement. Students have three seasonal shows a year which parents can attend. Students can participate in our  dance and drama after school classes.

In Elementary School, students have access to a wide range of Performing Arts activities. Students have curriculum general music lessons and develop performance skills on percussion, ukulele, recorder and voice and learn how to compose with increasing awareness of the musical elements. Students learn how to describe music using the correct vocabulary and identify music from different places and times. Grade 4 and 5 follow an instrumental curriculum, with every child learning to play an instrument in a band or in an orchestra. There are many times to perform throughout the year, with each grade having at least one performance a year. Students have access to a variety of Performing Arts after school clubs including the popular ES Musical Theater group, which perform a full scale musical. Drama is taught through extra curricular and activities with students being involved in workshops and Theater classes. We have at least two major productions a year with students from Elementary School, Middle School and High School involved. We collaborate with local Theater groups to lead workshops with students.

In Middle School, students receive two 70 minutes classes of either Band, Orchestra or Theater in a six day cycle. Students work with specialist teachers and develop skills as an individual performer and within an ensemble. Students perform throughout the year and also have access to AMIS and ISTA festivals. The choir meets during an enrichment period and prepares students for performance and the MAIS choir festival. Students enjoy a large selection of Performing Arts after school activities, such as Theater Improvisation, Big Band, Dance and Musical Theater.

In High School, students can access high quality Performing Arts throughout. Music runs as an elective in Grades 9 and 10 where students focus on themselves as performers and composers. In Grades 11 and 12, students can choose Music at IB DP level. Choir meets during an enrichment period and prepares for the AMIS and Iberian music festivals.  Throughout the year students perform at whole school events, such as the Winter Bazaar and International day alongside HS events, such as the Open Mic and Spirit week concerts. Students can opt for Performing Arts CAS projects, such as the very successful "BISA Talent Show" or be supported in Performing Arts based extended essays. Students in grade 12 showcase their skills in their graduation.

Students have a selection of Performing Arts after school activities, such as Theater Improvisation, Big Band, Rock Band and Musical Theater.

The new IBDP Music syllabus enables students to pursue their own musical path while exploring the different elements of being a well-rounded musician.  This course is for anyone with a passion or enthusiasm for music who wants to develop skills and broaden their knowledge of the subject. Students need to be able to play an instrument / sing and enjoy making music.

The IB Music course follows 4 different Areas of Inquiry: 

1. Music for sociocultural and political expression

2. Music for listening and performance

3. Music for dramatic impact, movement and entertainment

4. Music technology in the electronic and digital age

Students explore all four areas throughout the course as researchers, performers and creators of music.  

The course is ideal for students who:

• Are interested in both the practical and theoretical aspects of  music-making 

• Respond to a creative approach to composition and performance

• Value collaboration 

• Wish to experience a DP arts course 

• Plan to study music in university or college. 

 

Testimonials 

“I am currently progressing through my first year of IB and have found IB Music to be an enlightening and riveting experience. I’ve had the absolute pleasure of meeting the course leader, Ms. Bronwyn, as well as the Director of Performing Arts, Mr. Kevin. Ms. Bronwyn’s ways of teaching have proved entirely dynamic. As a class, we’ve spanned a variety of musical genres and styles. Using inspiration from these differing styles we were able to create multiple compositions and submit them to our diverse portfolios. The facilities available in the Music Department at ASB are remarkable. An array of instruments and digital tools are available for use at any time, as well as three well equipped practice rooms. I’m extremely happy I took IB music, and encourage any incoming IB students with a passion for music to consider taking it!”

Lukas grade 11 IB Music student

 

“Working in IB music over the last two years has been nothing but a pleasure, and a priceless opportunity of which I couldn’t be more grateful. Ms. Bronwyn and her class have allowed me to express myself without fear of judgement, explore my musical style outside of my comfort zone, provided me with the confidence I need to pursue my dreams, and inspired me to be a better person overall. Had I not taken this class, my musical knowledge and capabilities would be nowhere near as developed, nor would I be the person I am today.“

Aneesa Grade 12 IB Music student

 

Creativity is as important as literacy. - Ken Robinson

ASB is building a reputation for excellence in Musical Theater. All of our students grade 3-12 have the opportunity to perform in musicals either with our "ES Musical Theater" club or with our MS/HS "Spotlight Productions". Each theater group is led by four experienced staff members and we incorporate live music in all of our performances. We believe in a community experience and parent volunteers are encouraged!

We really believe in giving students (and our audience) a high quality, professional experience. We partner with Carlight, a sound and light company, who help us give stunning performances. 

We offer individual instrument tuition through pull out classes during the school day with instrument specific specialist teachers. We also can arrange after school instrument lessons (depending on teacher availability). Lessons are either 30 or 45 minutes and take place once a week. Please see the brochure for more information.

The instruments we offer are:

• Piano

• Drum kit

• Guitar (Electric, classical, acoustic) / Bass Guitar / Ukulele

• Voice (Classical or Pop)

• Strings - Violin / Viola / Cello / Double Bass

• Woodwind - Flute / Clarinet / Saxophone

• Brass - Trumpet / Baritone Horn / Trombone

If an instrument is not listed, we can normally find a teacher if there is demand. Teachers can also sometimes provide virtual lessons away from school time if this is preferred.