Crittenden Performing Arts Programs
Crittenden offers performing arts, such orchestra, guitar, band, musical theater and vocal music:
Orchestra at Crittenden Middle School
The Orchestra Program at Crittenden Middle School is a year-long course designed to support students as they build strong musical foundations and continue developing their skills. We offer three levels of orchestra: Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Orchestra, with Advanced Orchestra requiring an audition. Students learn to read music, develop their technique on their instruments, and practice a range of bow articulations and expressive phrasing. Throughout the year, we explore a variety of repertoire representing different styles and traditions. An important part of the program is learning how to play in an ensemble, listening carefully, adjusting balance and blend, and working together toward a shared musical goal. Each orchestra performs in two to three concerts per year, with Advanced Orchestra participating in additional performances. The program emphasizes both individual growth and collaboration, giving students meaningful performance experiences throughout the year.
Upcoming PA events for Orchestra
- May 19 at 6 pm: Orchestra Concert
Guitar at Crittenden Middle School
The Guitar Program at Crittenden Middle School is a year-long course designed to help students grow as confident, well-rounded musicians. We offer three classes: two Beginning Guitar classes and one Advanced Guitar Ensemble, which requires an audition. In Beginning Guitar, students learn how to read music, play a variety of chords, and explore both acoustic and classical styles of playing. As they progress, they develop skills in phrasing, musical expression, and putting pieces together with accuracy and artistry. In all classes, students learn what it means to be part of an ensemble: listening, blending, and collaborating with others. The Advanced Guitar Ensemble builds on these foundations with more challenging repertoire and performance opportunities. Throughout the year, students perform in two to three concerts, showcasing a wide range of repertoire and celebrating their growth as musicians.
Upcoming PA events for Guitar
- May 18 at 6 pm: Guitar Showcase
Band at Crittenden Middle School
This year-long performance course is designed to foster both technical mastery and artistic expression within the wind and percussion ensemble. Students will begin each session by establishing disciplined warm-up routines and refining instrument-specific techniques, such as embouchure and posture, to ensure a professional sound. Beyond the mechanics of playing, the curriculum emphasizes musical literacy, challenging students to master fundamental vocabulary, complex rhythmic concepts, and essential ear-training and sight-reading skills. As the ensemble progresses, the focus shifts toward the heart of performance: interpreting and communicating emotion through music. Through the study and rehearsal of diverse concert repertoire, students will learn to perform with accuracy, sensitivity, and a shared sense of expressive purpose, culminating in high-quality public performances throughout the year.
Upcoming PA events for Band
- May 14, 2026: School Band Spring Concert
Choir at Crittenden Middle School
Choir is a year-long performance-based course designed to develop the whole musician through the power of song. Students will begin each day by mastering proper vocal techniques and healthy warm-up habits, ensuring a strong foundation for lifelong singing. Throughout the year, the curriculum balances technical skill with artistic expression; students will dive into music theory, mastering fundamental vocabulary and rhythm concepts, while sharpening their ears through dedicated sight-reading practice. Beyond the notes on the page, singers will learn to interpret the emotional heart of their music, working collaboratively to rehearse and perform a diverse concert repertoire with accuracy, confidence, and expressive flair.
Upcoming PA events for Choir
- March 27, 28 at 7PM and March 29 at 2PM: School Musical, Aladdin Jr.
- May 20, 2026: School Choir Spring Concert
Musical Theatre at Crittenden Middle School
In partnership with the Green Room Theater Company, Crittenden Middle School proudly produces a full-scale musical production each year. Rehearsals run from December through March, culminating in three live performances at the end of the spring season. Beyond the stage, students develop essential skills in vocal performance, choreography, and acting, while building lasting friendships and confidence through the power of the arts.
Upcoming PA events for Musical
This year's school musical is Aladdin Jr.!
- March 27, 28 at 7PM and March 29 at 2PM: School Musical, Aladdin Jr.