Fine Arts Programs
- Concert Band
- Jazz Band
- Instruments Class (e.g. Dulcimer, guitar)
- Chamber Ensemble (periodically)
- Choir
- Theatre
- Visual Arts
- Digital Media
- Photography
- Graphic design
Jonathan Farley, Band Instructor
“Every now and then you find a student who struggles to find a foothold,” said Jonathan Farley, Band Instructor. “I had a student tell me, ‘I’ve never been that great at anything.’”
Mr. Farley recalls his advice to the student. “Maybe music will be your thing.”
After two weeks on the trombone, the student was ready to give up, a common feeling among first-time instrumentalists. But Mr. Farley encouraged him to stay with it.
"Turns out, this young man became one of our greatest musicians."
He had fallen in love with the trombone, and couldn't get enough!
Mr. Farley points out that in the arts, the student controls the pace. They are free to be great without any outside hindrance. It’s one of few things in a teenager’s life that they have complete control over.
He explains that in areas like math or science, students are given a course of studies. “But in the arts, students pursue what interests them. It’s an endeavor of the heart."
“I don’t teach music,” declares Mr. Farley. “I teach kids."
The arts are a refreshing break in the day, a time to be creative. Mr. Farley continues, “Whether it’s music, theater, or visual arts, young people create art full of emotion rather than living all day in a sea of facts.”
That makes Art a great stress-reducer for young people. “When you think of performance, that may be counter-intuitive,” admits Mr. Farley. “But the arts, especially music, force you to live in the moment, to be totally present to the task at hand and others in your group.”
As a small school, students are able to sample a broad cross section of fine arts. Some courses, like Digital Media, have a flexible curriculum to allow students to pursue their particular vision.
“I see the results that come with a certain amount of freedom to pursue one’s passion,” claims Mr. Farley. “I had a couple of students in photography who went on to do professional work even before they graduated.” Other students have won regional art reviews, or landed roles in the local community theater.
The arts are about the pursuit of beauty. “I don’t teach music,” declares Mr. Farley. “I teach kids. And I happen to do that through music.”
