Creative communication is important in all forms, and Oak Knoll’s performing arts groups allow our Upper School students to develop a myriad of skills that enhance self confidence and serve to enrich the culture of our community.
Chamber Orchestra (7-12)
This emerging program provides a forum for instrumentalists of varying ability levels to play together weekly and collaborate on performance pieces. The chamber orchestra may accompany the choirs during the Christmas and Spring concerts. All students with experience playing a musical instrument are encouraged to join this group. Private lessons are available.
Choraliers (7-8)
Choraliers is a choice singing group comprising talented members from Concert Choir. Auditions for this group take place in September; regularly scheduled morning rehearsals occur in preparation for their first performance at the November Choral Consortium, an annual event founded and hosted by Oak Knoll featuring vocal performances of choirs from neighboring middle schools. The Choraliers also perform in the Spring Concert. The members of this group master the art of three-part harmony, learn and perform songs in a variety of styles, and study show-choir techniques.
Dancers (7-12)
Junior Dancers is a select dance group comprising students from grades 7 through 9. Senior Dancers belong to grades 10 through 12. Students audition for membership that requires participation in numerous after-school and occasional weekend rehearsals. The groups perform classical ballet (including pointe), jazz, modern, lyrical, and Broadway show pieces at school productions, the annual Dance Concert, and the Teen Arts Festival. A group called Apprentices is open to any interested student. These developing dancers should attend group rehearsals as frequently as possible.
Ensemble (10-12)
Ensemble is a select group of singers chosen by audition. Members should be available for practice and performance both during and after school hours and occasionally on weekends. The Ensemble sings at school concerts, liturgies, and prayer services and performs at numerous community functions. Prerequisite: must be a member of Concert Choir.
Jesters (7-12)
Jesters Workshop provides students interested in theatre performance opportunities to hone their craft. Students learn on-stage and backstage technique. Opportunities for performance include a fall play and individual and ensemble work in the spring.
School Musical Production (7-12)
Every spring Oak Knoll puts on a major musical production. Some of the recent performances include Once on This Island, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoast, and Sophisticated Ladies. This production not only provides theatrical opportunities for students talented in music, drama, and dance, but it also provides experience and training for students interested in such areas as staging, directing, lighting, set design, and construction, costuming, and make-up, publicity, and ticket sales. Auditions for the musical usually occur in November.
Singers (9)
Singers is a select vocal group composed of talented ninth graders from the Concert Choir. Students rehearse on a regular basis in preparation for performance opportunities in the Christmas and Spring Concerts.