Developing Your Inner Artist

The Visual Arts program at St. Anne’s empowers students to discover and develop their inner artist. Through a wide range of opportunities, Middle and Upper School students explore and express their creativity across various artistic mediums, and we follow that up with real-world platforms to showcase their masterpieces. Our artistic offerings include:

Students tap into their creativity and express their unique voices while building a solid technical foundation. In our open, supportive, and inclusive studio environment, we value respect for oneself and others. This nurturing atmosphere helps students to develop essential skills such as problem-solving, confidence, and artistic competence.

 

We recognize that students come to us with varying levels of technical skill, so we meet them where they are, inspiring a passion for the arts and guiding them on their creative journey. Our wide array of initiatives, like ACPlus, Middle School Arts, the Arts Council, in-school workshops, class trips, and class projects, ensures every student has the chance to grow and succeed.

 

We organize visits to local museums and galleries to further enrich our students’ experience and appreciation for the arts. These excursions allow students to engage with the broader art world, gain inspiration, and deepen their understanding of artistic expression.

 

At St. Anne’s, we believe in the power of the arts to inspire, challenge, and transform our students. Our Visual Arts program is more than just a series of classes – it’s a vibrant, dynamic community where students can explore their creativity, build their skills, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

 

A Comprehensive Music Education

At St. Anne’s, we offer a well-rounded and high-quality music education that encompasses performance, theory, and history. Our curriculum is designed to nurture a lifelong passion for music and to cultivate a deep understanding of its various facets.

 

We lay the groundwork for musical excellence at St. Anne's starting in Grade 5, ensuring that students have a solid foundation before they begin their band instruments; however, we understand that student may begin their musical journey at a later age. No matter where students are on their musical path, we offer something for everyone. From beginners playing their first notes to advanced students with years of private lessons, we ensure everyone receives the guidance and encouragement they need. Additional support is provided to students who enter the music program after Grade 5 so all students feel comfortable and successful. 

 

Learning music at St. Anne’s goes beyond the classroom. Our students enjoy experiential learning opportunities, such as field trips and sessions with guest clinicians, enriching their education and providing real-world musical experiences. Additionally, students can further their learning through participation in our extracurricular choir and bands, which provide a collaborative environment to explore and perform music while developing skills and enjoying the camaraderie of making music together.

 

Throughout the year, our students have numerous solo and ensemble performance opportunities, catering to all experience levels. Whether they are just starting out or are seasoned musicians, they will find a stage to showcase their talent and grow their confidence. We also integrate theory resources from the Royal Conservatory of Music into our curriculum, supporting students who aspire to take Conservatory exams and ensuring they receive top-tier theoretical education.

 

Collaboration is at the heart of our Music program. Students have the chance to perform with peers from St. Andrew’s College through school plays, musicals, and the Focus Festival of Arts. These joint performances highlight the creative synergy between our schools and showcase the incredible talent of our students. Additionally, participation in the Conference of Independent Schools Music Festival (CISMF) offers students a unique chance to connect with fellow music enthusiasts from across Ontario and perform at the iconic Roy Thomson Hall, fostering a sense of community and providing an enriching experience beyond the classroom.

 

St. Andrew’s & St. Anne’s Academy of Music

The St. Andrew’s & St. Anne’s Academy of Music aims to support and nurture students in a one-on-one and small group setting, encouraging personal growth, artistry, and an appreciation of the arts. Our goals for students include becoming the best musicians they can be, experiencing community and common bonds through the universal language of music, and emerging as tomorrow’s performers, audiences, and supporters of the arts.

 

Individual music tuition at our academy offers private music study for any student, supports classroom curriculum for those enrolled in school music courses by providing professional tuition on their principal instrument, and provides opportunities to explore alternative avenues such as new instruments, different music styles, improvisation, ensemble, jazz, and rock combos. Instruction is tailored to each student’s needs based on individual goals and learning styles, and we offer examination preparation for those wishing for this opportunity.

 

Our connection with the Royal Conservatory Certificate Program provides a nationally and internationally recognized comprehensive music program, including practical and theory examinations from Preparatory to Level 10 and the Associate Diploma. Students can earn Grade 11 and 12 secondary school credits by completing Level 7 and Level 8 practical and theory examinations.

Unfolding Creativity