Arts

In 6th grade, students choose the musical path they wish to pursue: choir, band, or orchestra. 

In middle school, students learn first in sectionals with like-instruments (6th grade) and progress into full band ensembles (7th and 8th grade). Students are celebrated through band awards such as "outstanding musician", "most-improved", and "MSBOA Scholar Instrumentalist Award."

The Band Program at our high school is committed to developing the musical talents of our students while fostering a sense of discipline, teamwork, and passion for music. Through a comprehensive curriculum that includes symphony/concert bands, jazz band, and marching band, students are provided with opportunities to develop their instrumental skills and perform in various settings. Participation in band encourages students to collaborate, build leadership qualities, and enhance their appreciation for diverse musical genres. 

Our theatre department spans K-12. With two theatres (Pioneer Auditorium and Wealthy Auditorium) and a rehearsal stage (Little Auditorium), there is always something happening!

In the elementary years, students have the opportunity to be involved in an all-school musical production. Every student who wants to be involved is able to be involved! Students gain experience not only on the stage, but also behind the scenes assisting with lighting, costuming, and set management.

In the middle school years, students have the opportunities to participate in a fall musical, spring play, and talent show. All opportunities at the middle school are by audition. Students are able to take the lead on backstage theatrical positions also through opportunities in stage management, lighting, sound, set production, and props production. 

The Drama/Theater Department at our high school is dedicated to nurturing the creative and expressive potential of our students through the dynamic art of theater. Our program offers a range of opportunities that include acting, directing, stage management or crew, sound and lighting, costuming, publicity, set construction, and more, providing students with opportunities to develop their talents both on and off the stage. Through participation in theatrical productions and classroom activities, students learn to collaborate, communicate effectively, and think critically. Engaging in drama fosters empathy, self-confidence, and a deeper understanding of the human experience. Our high school offers a full year of dramatic opportunities, including: 24 hour theatre, fall play, variety show, student-directed play, winter play, and spring musical.

East Grand Rapids High School Drama stages multiple productions during the school year. The department's Drama Club is a member of the International Thespian Society and hosts an annual Honor and Recognition Ceremony to celebrate students' accomplishments in the arts. Past sponsored events include trips to Broadway Chicago and The Stratford Shakespeare Festival in Canada. 

In 6th grade, students choose the musical path they wish to pursue: choir, band, or orchestra. 

Students begin their orchestral journey in middle school, then at the high school level, students perform in either the Pioneer Orchestra or Varsity Orchestra.

Orchestra is a performance-based course where learning is centered on a collective, ensemble experience. Students learn about music notation, composers, music history, and musicians, but primarily focus on the experience of making music.  Students will hone their skills and knowledge of their instrument while learning to work together as an ensemble. Musical skills will be accompanied by life skills such as teamwork, discipline, professionalism, communication, respect, effort, and enjoyment.

Visual art is an elective option that many students choose to pursue. Additionally, at the middle and high school level, art club is offered after school. Our art students have had the opportunity to work with ArtPrize artists, learn from Disney artists, and contribute to local murals. 

Elementary students have art class once a week through their specials rotation, and craft activities are infused into daily curriculum. 

At the middle school, art opportunities expand through classes such as yearbook, digital art, pottery, painting, and more. 

High school students may pursue art across a variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, fabrication, animation and game design, interior and home design, and drafting technology. The EGRHS Art Department's goal is to cultivate the artist in each individual. 

The Vocal Music Program aims to inspire and develop the vocal talents of our students while promoting a lifelong love of music.

In 6th grade, students choose the musical path they wish to pursue: choir, band, or orchestra. 

Students begin their choral journey in middle school, then at the high school level, students may pursue Pioneer Chorus, Varsity Voices, Bella Voce, and Madrigals. Through rigorous training and numerous performance experiences, students enhance their vocal technique, stage presence, and musicality.