Academics
The Arts
Visual Arts
At MPS, we believe that art should be fun! Positive experiences in the art room encourage a deep love of expression from a young age and students learn that they can turn to art as an outlet to express their emotions, ideas, and experiences (even ones they may not yet have the words for). Through drawing, painting, building, and creating, children can process feelings, explore their imaginations, and communicate in a way that feels safe and personal.
We allow a balance of creative expression and concentrated technique building. In the MPS art studio, we openly discuss process and support critical thinking through open-ended questions, problem-solving, and reflection.
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Creating Confident Thinkers
Skill and technique development, project planning and execution, and observation and analysis of artworks in the studio all play a large role across Mason Prep’s varying disciplines to create confident, innovative, independent thinkers. -
Cultivating a Student's Artistic Style
In the art studio at Mason Prep, students are presented with all the benefits of a traditional visual arts curriculum via lessons that allow them to fully empower their own learning. Drawing, painting, collage, ceramics, and sculpture allow for exploration of a wide range of art materials, and focused studies of important artists’ work offer global perspectives on both new and familiar subjects. Starting in Kindergarten, students embark on a thorough study of color theory and the principals and elements of design as they grow and cultivate their own artistic style.
"Art is more than just painting. It's a powerful tool for learning and self-expression. Giving children creative freedom boosts their confidence, encourages problem solving, and helps them develop a personal voice."
- Ms. Duncan, Art Teacher
- Ms. Duncan, Art Teacher
Music
At Mason Prep, music education gives students a space to express themselves, build confidence, and connect with others. Our curriculum encourages creativity, collaboration, and emotional awareness while helping students develop important life skills like patience, responsibility, and teamwork.
In music class, students explore note reading, rhythm, movement, improvisation, and composition. They learn performance and audience etiquette, grow comfortable with creative risk-taking, and support each other through the process of learning and performing.
Beginning in 3rd grade, students learn to play the guitar, focusing on foundational skills such as proper technique, repertoire, and playing with a group. They also explore improvisation and composition, learning how to create their own music using a variety of simple tools and techniques.
In 6th grade, students begin using a digital audio workstation (DAW), called BandLab, to compose, produce, and present original music. They study production methods and musical structure by analyzing both modern and historical works, developing their own creative voice in the process.
Through these experiences, students discover how music reflects human emotion and fosters connection. Our goal is to help every student find joy in making music, whether performing, composing, or simply listening, with skills and appreciation that last a lifetime.
Through music education, students are engaged in activities that require them to be creative, disciplined, and flexible and to work cooperatively with others.
Mason Preparatory School is committed to the education of the whole child in preparation for secondary education through the cultivation of respect, integrity, and personal responsibility within a nurturing environment that results in a productive citizen of a global community.
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