Fine & Performing Arts
- Welcome
- Elementary Music & Art
- Bands
- Choirs
- Orchestras
- Theatre Arts
- Visual Arts
- CCS Arts Social Media
Welcome
The Power of the Arts
Clarkston Community Schools' fine and performing arts programs are designed to provide an environment in which students can pursue interests and skills in a variety of performing and creative arts. Students experience the joy of expressing and appreciating art through a variety of mediums.
Pursuing Passions Through Self-Expression
Our fine and performing arts courses are designed to function using a spiral curriculum, where skills are introduced in beginning coursework, revisited and refined throughout subsequent grade levels. Through exploration, play, and experiential learning, young artists and musicians are building toward developing skills that have the power to propel them into a career in the arts. Higher level thinking skills spring from personal expression as students pursue their passions and develop their unique talents and artistic crafts.
Contact
Michael Lewis, Music Subject Area Coordinator
mplewis@clarkston.k12.mi.us
P: 248.623.3600
Amy Seaman, Theatre Manager
aeseaman@clarkston.k12.mi.us
P: 248.623.4026
BOOSTED BY PARENT SUPPORT
Clarkston fine and performing arts programs have an excellent reputation for producing outstanding young musicians and we owe much of that success to the support of our students' families.
- The Clarkston Schools Instrumental Music Association (CSIMA) provides both moral and financial support to the 6-12 grade instrumental music programs of Clarkston Schools. CSIMA members serve as a resource to the instructional staff of the Clarkston Schools instrumental music programs by volunteering our individual skills and performing the fundraising necessary to enhance the school district’s funding of instrumental music programs. CSIMA meetings are the second month of every Monday of the month from September through May.
- The Clarkston Choirs Booster Organization (CCBO) was created to support and promote all Clarkston choirs. All Clarkston residents are welcome to attend CCBO meetings, which are held each month (usually on the second Thursday) from August through May.
Developing Arts Appreciation
By Natalie Pagel, associate director, SMS & CJHS
As a musician and educator, I often mention the value of "music for music's sake." It's a phrase used commonly in our field, but what does it really mean?
There are many benefits to learning to read and make music, and there is plenty of research to support these benefits. From advances in reasoning and problem solving to increased scores in math and reading, the ways in which music makes a better learner are endless. But these skills can be honed in a number of ways in a number of classes. So what is it that makes music special and unique?
Consider the history of civilization
For as long as humans have existed, so has art. A flute made of bone, cave wall paintings and ivory carvings, elaborate Egyptian burial decor, a keyboard made of mammoth bones. We see evidence of art from tens of thousands of years ago that surely wasn't created or utilized because of a need to improve M-STEP scores.
Why are the arts important then? Well, why did you brush your hair this morning? Why did you paint your walls or sing "Twinkle, twinkle little star" to your babies? Why did you pick out that card for your grandma's birthday? What was the point? Surely not simply to meet some physical need, like food and water. And yet, like food and water, we've never existed without the arts.
To understand its role, we have to be willing to look beyond our tangible needs. We are more than the hours of sleep we steal or the pounds we weigh. We have emotions, feelings (dare I say, souls?) and a desire to express and communicate them with one another. How many people today do you know who are out of touch? So many lack the ability to empathize, especially in a digital landscape. But with art, we come a little closer.
Music has the power to move those invisible pieces inside of us. It lightens our bodies when we feel tired or weak, allows us to sink into our sadness and pain, explore our power and motivate our minds. And as we play in the band or sing in the choir, we allow those experiences to become shared ones. We no longer suffer or celebrate or laugh alone. We feel, and we make our audiences feel. Is there a reason beyond that?
Is there a reason needed?
We welcome the opportunity to teach your children the beginnings to a life of music and we hope you will join us in furthering the role of music in our lives... for music's sake. As Karl Paunack said in his welcome address to incoming freshmen studying music at the Boston Conservatory:
"You're not here to become an entertainer, and you don't have to sell yourself. The truth is you don't have anything to sell; being a musician isn't about dispensing a product, like selling used Chevies. I'm not an entertainer; I'm a lot closer to a paramedic, a firefighter, a rescue worker. You're here to become a sort of therapist for the human soul, a spiritual version of a chiropractor, physical therapist, someone who works with our insides to see if they get things to line up, to see if we can come into harmony with ourselves and be healthy and happy and well."
(To read Paunack's fantastic speech in full, click here)
Elementary Music & Art
In Their Words
Elementary Music & Art
- K-2 Music & Art: It All Starts With Play
- Grades 3-5 Music & Art: Growing Through Self- Expression
- New! Information for Fifth Graders
K-2 Music & Art: It All Starts With Play
VISUAL ARTS
In Clarkston Community Schools, K-2 visual art is taught by connecting grade level subject matter through specific themes to art curriculum. This integration takes grade appropriate basic design elements such as Lines, Color, Shape & Texture and infuses it with Language Arts, Science and Math. We call these connections "through lines." K-2 through lines are:
- Kindergarten - How do art materials work? What is art?
- First Grade - What are different kinds of artists? How do artists use or show patterns?
- Second Grade - How do artists show change? (For example: seasons, melting, feelings and growing as well as concrete experience of change through the process of clay in ceramics.)
Young artists get a unique view and strong foundation of connecting and expressing his or her real world as an artist. Art class is an exploration of wonderful opportunity that enriches and provides deeper meaning to your child's life.
MUSIC & MOVEMENT
In the lower elementary music classroom, students will engage with music through exploration, exposure, and play. Students will develop essential skills such as: matching pitch with a singing voice, keeping steady beat with instruments and the body, listening and moving expressively, and becoming familiar with these elements of music (form, timbre, melody, harmony, rhythm, expressive qualities). The goal of music classroom is to foster a curiosity and joy for music that will extend into upper elementary and beyond.
UNIQUE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
The young artist will experiment with a variety of media and art making techniques including but not limited to drawing, painting, collage, ceramics and printmaking. Students will have the opportunity to have their artwork displayed and share their artwork with others. In music, all students participate in concerts, sing-a-longs, celebrations and school meeting presentations (may vary by building). Separate music classes are also offered for students with learning, behavioral, or emotional needs.
Grades 3-5 Music & Art: Growing Through Self- Expression
Upper Elementary Music & art
In Clarkston Community Schools, 3-5 art is taught through specific themes, integrating basic design elements and different subject matters. We call these connections "through lines" and elements of design. 3-5 through lines are:
- 3rd - How do artists show organization in our world?
- 4th - How do we connect to art from other cultures and times?
- 5th - How do artists impact our world?
Your growing artist gets a unique view and strong foundation of connecting different subject matter. Art class is a wonderful opportunity that enriches and provides deeper meaning to your child's life.
Music & Movement
In upper elementary, music education encourages self-growth through community. Students will express themselves creatively through these essential skills: singing, composing, improvising, expanding their understanding of music literacy, and listening to an increasingly diverse repertoire of music. Additionally, students will play a variety of instruments from the percussion, string, and woodwind families. The goal of the music classroom is to encourage students to become critical thinkers who will develop into independent lifelong learners through music-making.
Unique Learning Opportunities
The growing artist will experiment with a variety of media and art making techniques including but not limited to drawing, painting, collage, ceramics, printmaking, and much more. Students will have the opportunity to have their artwork displayed and share their artwork with others. In 4th grade, students have an incredible cultural experience of taking a trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts.
In music, all students participate in concerts, sing-a-longs, celebrations and school meeting presentations (may vary by building). Fourth grade students take a field trip to Detroit Symphony Orchestra, fifth graders visit Clarkston High School for secondary ensemble performances. In upper elementary school, instrumental instruction in basic keyboard, ukulele, recorder, and percussion skills (may vary by building) are available. Separate music classes are also offered for students with learning, behavioral, or emotional needs.
Building Toward Middle School
All fine arts courses in Clarkston Community Schools are designed to function using a spiral curriculum, where skills are introduced in beginning coursework, revisited and refined throughout subsequent grade levels. Growing artists are continuing to develop visual literacy skills. Students will learn how to create, discuss, apply higher level thinking skills, and form their own opinions and judgments.
New! Information for Fifth Graders
From the Directors
Dear Parents,
As an incoming sixth grader, your child has the opportunity to continue what so many successful students have before them: Be a part of the Music Program!
We know that for some of you, this will be your first exposure to instrumental music education and we wanted to take a brief minute to share some information with you. Attached to this letter is information regarding our program and the different opportunities it provides for your child. This is a time where both of you can explore the different options and get help choosing the experiences and classes that will help them be successful in high school and beyond. If after reading these materials you still have questions, please feel free to contact us at any time using the info listed below.
Music education is more than just playing an instrument or singing in a choir. It is immersing your child in a culture of successful students and teachers who care about education. It challenges each child to use the creative side of their brain while, at the same time, learning a new way to communicate… through MUSIC.
All of the current data clearly states that students involved in music education academically outperform their non-musical counterparts. Children who study music show different brain development and improved memory. Studies also show that music students are less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drugs and alcohol. Additionally, music classes provide students with a safe space to express themselves. The classes are character building, memory making, friendship forming courses focused on creating and collaborating something bigger than ourselves. Did we also mention that they are a lot of FUN?
Every destination starts with a decision to embark on a journey. Now is the time to start your child in music and here is the place to do it. We can promise they will learn, laugh, and grow along the way.
Sincerely,
Justin Harris, CJHS, SMS, CHS Band joharris@clarkston.k12.mi.us
Michael Lewis, CHS & SMS Band mplewis@clarkston.k12.mi.us
Michael Peterson, District Choir mppeterson@clarkston.k12.mi.us
Joseph Richards, District Orchestra, jmrichards@clarkston.k12.mi.us
Ross Taylor, SMS Band, Orchestra, Choir rntaylor@clarkston.k12.mi.us
Instrumental Music Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t know anything about music?
That’s okay! We will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step. From how to assemble and care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and patient ears when your child comes home and makes their first sounds.
How much out of school time is required?
Music is no different than any other curricular area. We ask that your child spend some time with their instrument each and every week. Think of it as musical homework, but with an awesome instrument in their hands. Additionally, 6th grade students will participate in two concerts during the school year; one in the first half of the year and one in the second.
What instrument should my child play?
The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that the play something that they enjoy. We encourage you to visit the website www.bepartofthemusic.org, watch the different instrument videos with your child, and discuss the different options. We will also help guide your child based on his/her musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability. Your child knows what they want, you know your child, and we know music. Together we will find the instrument that they will not only enjoy but will give them the best chance of musical success.
What are the costs?
The costs associated with music depend on which instrument your child chooses and if you already own an instrument.Most students rent a quality instrument from a local music store at a very reasonable price. If financial constraints prevent you from being able to do this, please contact us and allow us to help! We will not let financial constraints keep your child from participating!!
What if I am not sure I want my child to do music?
Remember when your parents made you sit at the table until you ate your vegetables? Even if you didn’t love broccoli, your parents knew it was good for you. Music is the same way. Your child should sign up for music because it’s a wonderful subject to study... and way more fun than broccoli! If at some point in years to come, you decide it’s not for your child, they do not have to continue.
What if I have other questions?
Please know that we are here to answer any and all questions that you may have. Due to the busy nature of our program and schools in general, it is sometimes difficult to contact us by phone. The best way for you to reach us is electronically at the email addresses listed on the previous page. This will allow us to respond to your query, whether you are available by phone or not. You may also wish to browse the department website.
What do the students say?
“You will make a lot of good friends and it’s fun to learn and grow together as people.”
“The memories you make in music are memories you can’t make anywhere else.”
“Music is important to me because I am more inspired while playing music. My life would never truly be fulfilled without it. The purpose of music is to feel like you belong somewhere.”
Click the button below to visit our website tailored to incoming Sixth Graders interested in music.
Benefits: Beyond the Tests
Here at Clarkston Community Schools, our success is not defined by any single metric, but by a variety of measures that reflect this distinctive set of values. Look beyond standardized test scores and wonder about what makes a great learner.
CREATIVITY
The arts work to shift from binary thinking: "right" or "wrong" answers, and instead pushes students to think critically about the choices they make stylistically or otherwise. Students are taught that significance can be made through qualitative, not quantitative information. It is difficult to argue that there is not a “right” or “wrong” answer in music, as a wrong note is certainly in the realm of possibility. We can push students to see beyond right and wrong; that there is a level of understanding achieved beyond “just” right and wrong. This is even reinforced at the state level, for example, through the MSBOA and MSVMA festivals, for example, where “Style” and interpretation are in their own category and play an equal part in the overall rating of a performance. When it comes to interpretation, there may be many “right” ways.
PERSEVERANCE
In the arts, there is no bench. Students are not excluded from participating because of a lack of ability or talent. The expectation is the same for every student in the room, and thus the player's responsibility is to the other members in the group.
SELF-AWARENESS AND REGULATION
Students learn to hold themselves accountable for the information presented because of an intrinsic desire to improve the quality of their craft. As they progress, students acquire the knowledge necessary to identify and correct an incorrect pitch or rhythm using their auditory processing skills. They must also have the ability to concentrate on a task while processing what they are hearing, viewing from their conductor, and seeing on their canvas.
UNDERSTANDING THE ABSTRACT
Students have to be able to imagine various solutions to possible problems to create an artistic piece or a passage of music that is an accurate representation of what has been composed.
DECISIVENESS and RISK-TAKING
It takes courage to create sound publicly every day and share a personal art form. Students create, play or sing for individually, in small groups, and large ensembles every day and subject their work to critique by peers and instructors.
CREATING UNDERSTANDING
"Art is one of the most powerful tools in disrupting the status quo. We see this time and time again, because artists have the ability to use the platform of art to translate difficult, topical, and controversial issues into an accessible medium for dialogue and engagement. Art can break down boundaries—political, socioeconomic, geographic—and can empower communities to protect their rights and legacies." - Nicole Dowd, Program Manager of Halycon Arts Lab
SOCIO-EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT
"Music is… magical... you take some seemingly random marks on a page, you blow air through a carefully constructed tube, and what comes out the other side is a sound that can convey things that words cannot... And while we can do a million random things with a million random objects, somehow, when we just blow some air through a tube, we create sounds that can move other human beings, can reach right into our brains and our hearts... That is… magical." – Peter Greene, The Huffington Post
DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP
A student learns to lead when he or she feels confident in his or her abilities, comfortable with those he or she is leading, and supported intellectually and emotionally by his or her instructors. We provide these opportunities daily. We build our team, year after year, and grow a community of kind, hard working people who all want the best for each other, because it's what's best for the ensemble.
For more information, please visit the following websites:
Bands
The Impact of Music Education on Children is Profound
Music does more than just make sounds, it changes the way we think and act. The skills your child will learn in music will help them be successful on the stage, in the classroom, and for the rest of their lives.
- Clarkston Schools Instrumental Music Association
- Sashabaw Middle School Bands
- Clarkston Junior High School Bands
- Clarkston High School Concert Bands
- Clarkston High School Jazz Band
Clarkston Schools Instrumental Music Association
BOOSTED BY PARENT SUPPORT
Clarkston fine and performing arts programs have an excellent reputation for producing outstanding young musicians and we owe much of that success to the support of our students' families.
The Clarkston Schools Instrumental Music Association (CSIMA) provides both moral and financial support to the 6-12 grade instrumental music programs of Clarkston Schools. CSIMA members serve as a resource to the instructional staff of the Clarkston Schools instrumental music programs by volunteering our individual skills and performing the fundraising necessary to enhance the school district’s funding of instrumental music programs. CSIMA meetings are the second month of every Monday of the month from September through May.
Sashabaw Middle School Bands
Sixth and Seventh Grade Band
These courses are designed to teach students the fundamentals of music performance. Beginning in 6th grade and continuing through 7th grade, skills introduced include instrumental technique, music literacy, and an introduction to stylistic interpretation. Students learn the fundamentals needed to make informed musical decisions. Students will perform in concerts throughout the year including one adjudicated Band/Choir/Orchestra festival performance in 7th grade. Students can also choose to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival through the Michigan Schools Band and Orchestra Association.
Essential Skills:
Sashabaw Middle School students will focus on reading musical notation including pitch and rhythm. Skills introduced at this level include:
- instrument assembly and care
- how to hold an instrument or bow correctly
- posture
- pitch
- rhythm
- technical fluency
- tone
- breathing and breath control
- vowel shape
- diction
- intonation
- style
- interpretation
- sight-reading technique
- personal and ensemble presentation
- basic foreign language
Additionally, students will develop leadership abilities and interpersonal skills, working independently and in collaborative ensembles.
Meet the Director
Ross Taylor
Mr. Taylor is currently in his seventh year of teaching, and his 6th with Clarkston Community Schools. Prior to coming to Clarkston, Mr. Taylor taught for one year in Concord, MI. Along with teaching middle school band and orchestra, Mr. Taylor is an assistant director of the High School Marching Band and director of the CHS Percussion Ensembles. In addition to teaching in Clarkston, he taught Redline Percussion for four years and the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps for one year. He is also an educational artist with Innovative Percussion Inc.
He received his Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Michigan State University and Master of Music in Music Education degree from Central Michigan University. He was a member of the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps from Rosemont, IL for 4 years and served as a drum sergeant during his last season. He was also a member of NorthCoast Academy from Saginaw, MI for 5 years and served on the leadership team for 3 years. Mr. Taylor is an active member of MSBOA and MCBA, having served on executive boards with both organizations.
Along with teaching music, Mr. Taylor designs shows and writes music for several groups across the country. In his free time, he enjoys reading, kayaking, and spending time with his wife Lindsay.
Clarkston Junior High School Bands
Eighth and Ninth Grade Bands
These courses are designed to build upon the fundamentals of music performance. Skills learned at a younger age are improved, including instrumental technique, music literacy, and stylistic interpretation. Students continue to refine the fundamentals needed to make informed musical decisions. Students will perform in concerts throughout the year including one adjudicated Band/Choir/Orchestra festival performance. Students can also choose to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival through the Michigan Schools Band and Orchestra Association.
Essential Skills:
Clarkston Junior High School students will continue to focus on reading progressively more challenging musical notation and will expand the ranges of their instrument. Skills cultivated at this level include
- refined pitch discrimination
- rhythm
- technical fluency
- tone
- breathing and breath control
- vowel shape
- diction
- intonation
- style
- interpretation
- sight-reading technique
- personal and ensemble presentation
- foreign language
Additionally, students will continue to develop leadership abilities and interpersonal skills, working independently and in collaborative ensembles.
Meet the Director
Justin Harris
Mr. Harris is in his 14th year of teaching in the Clarkston School District. He loves teaching band at Clarkston Junior High School. He also teaches the Clarkston High School Jazz Band and is an Assistant Director of the 160 member Clarkston High School Marching Band.
He received his Bachelors of Music Education degree from Central Michigan University and Masters of Public Administration with an emphasis in Educational Administration from the University of Michigan-Flint. His main instrument in college was the trombone and he performed in many concert bands, jazz bands, the Chippewa Marching Band, orchestra, pit orchestra, jazz-bone, and trombone choir while at Central Michigan University. His wife Katie is also a music teacher in Clarkston. They have one wonderful daughter and one terrific son.
Clarkston High School Concert Bands
Concert Band and Symphonic Wind Ensemble
These courses are designed to build upon the fundamentals of music performance. Skills learned at a younger age are improved, including instrumental technique, music literacy, and stylistic interpretation. Students continue to refine the fundamentals needed to make informed musical decisions. Students will perform in concerts throughout the year including one adjudicated Band/Choir/Orchestra festival performance. Students can also choose to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival through the Michigan Schools Band and Orchestra Association.
Essential Skills:
Clarkston High School students will continue to focus on reading progressively more challenging musical notation and will expand the ranges of their instrument. Skills cultivated at this level include
- refined pitch discrimination
- rhythm
- technical fluency
- tone
- breathing and breath control
- vowel shape
- diction
- intonation
- style
- interpretation
- sight-reading technique
- personal and ensemble presentation
- foreign language
Additionally, students will continue to develop leadership abilities and interpersonal skills, working independently and in collaborative ensembles.
Meet the Director
Michael Lewis
Mr. Lewis is in his twenty-third year of teaching instrumental music. After teaching two years in the Ubly Community School District, he became the Associate Director of Bands in Clarkston, a position he held for nine years. Mr. Lewis is currently in his fourteenth year as Director of Bands at Clarkston High School where he conducts the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and Symphonic Wind Ensemble and is director of the Marching Band. Under his direction, the Clarkston High School Symphonic Wind Ensemble has performed at the Michigan Music Conference, the American School Band Directors Association National Convention, the Central Michigan University Concert Band Symposium and the Western Michigan University Spring Conference on Wind and Percussion Music.
Mr. Lewis received both his Bachelor of Music Education Degree and Master of Music Education Degree from Central Michigan University. He studied bassoon with Mary Beth Minnis, saxophone with John Nichol and conducting with John Williamson.
As an active member of the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA), Mr. Lewis served as President, Vice President for Band and Orchestra, and Treasurer in District IV. At the state level of MSBOA, he served as chairman of the Music Education Committee and is currently serving as a member of the Music Selection Committee. Mr. Lewis regularly adjudicates both district and state Solo and Ensemble and Band and Orchestra Festivals. Mr. Lewis was both a Clarkston Foundation Teacher of the Year Nominee and has twice been the Band Teacher of the Year for District IV of MSBOA. He has been a member of the American School Band Directors Association since 2001.
Clarkston High School Jazz Band
Justin Harris
Mr. Harris is in his 14th year of teaching in the Clarkston School District. He loves teaching band at Clarkston Junior High School. He also teaches the Clarkston High School Jazz Band and is an Assistant Director of the 160 member Clarkston High School Marching Band.
He received his Bachelors of Music Education degree from Central Michigan University and Masters of Public Administration with an emphasis in Educational Administration from the University of Michigan-Flint. His main instrument in college was the trombone and he performed in many concert bands, jazz bands, the Chippewa Marching Band, orchestra, pit orchestra, jazz-bone, and trombone choir while at Central Michigan University. His wife Katie is also a music teacher in Clarkston. They have one wonderful daughter and one terrific son.
Choirs
The Impact of Music Education on Children is Profound
Music does more than just make sounds, it changes the way we think and act. The skills your child will learn in music will help them be successful on the stage, in the classroom, and for the rest of their lives.
- Clarkston Choirs Booster Organization
- Sashabaw Middle School Choirs
- Clarkston Junior High School Choirs
- Clarkston High School Choirs
Clarkston Choirs Booster Organization
BOOSTED BY PARENT SUPPORT
Clarkston fine and performing arts programs have an excellent reputation for producing outstanding young musicians and we owe much of that success to the support of our students' families.
The Clarkston Choirs Booster Organization (CCBO) was created to support and promote all Clarkston choirs. All Clarkston residents are welcome to attend CCBO meetings, which are held each month (usually on the second Thursday) from August through May.
Sashabaw Middle School Choirs
Sixth and Seventh Grade Choirs
These courses are designed to teach students the fundamentals of music performance. Beginning in 6th grade and continuing through 7th grade, skills introduced include vocal technique, music literacy, and an introduction to stylistic interpretation. Students learn the fundamentals needed to make informed musical decisions. Students will perform in concerts throughout the year including one adjudicated Band/Choir/Orchestra festival performance in 7th grade. Students can also choose to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival through the Michigan Schools Vocal Music Association.
Essential Skills:
Sashabaw Middle School students will focus on reading musical notation including pitch and rhythm. Skills introduced at this level include:
- posture
- pitch
- rhythm
- technical fluency
- tone
- breathing and breath control
- vowel shape
- diction
- intonation
- style
- interpretation
- sight-reading technique
- personal and ensemble presentation
- basic foreign language
Additionally, students will develop leadership abilities and interpersonal skills, working independently and in collaborative ensembles.
Uniform Information
Uniformity is extremely important for performances. When members of an ensemble are dressed alike, the ensemble appears as one unit and those in the audience are more apt to hear the entire group rather than focusing on individual students. If a family is unable to provide any part of the SMS Concert uniform, please contact your director by the end of September.
6th Grade Uniform: Students are to wear black shoes, black dress slacks or a skirt of appropriate length, black socks, black tights or hose, and your Clarkston Choirs t-shirt.
7th Grade Uniform: Students are to wear all black shoes, black dress slacks or a skirt (knee length or longer), black socks, black tights or hose, and your Clarkston Choirs t-shirt.
Meet the Director
Michael Peterson
Michael Peterson has been teaching choral music for 25 years. His first three years were in Reese Public Schools as a general music teacher grades first through sixth grade and choral director of the Middle and High School Choirs. He has spent 15 years at Clarkston Community Schools directing the High School, Junior High, and Middle School Choirs overseeing 5 daily choir’s, and the music director of the annual musicals. He also spent 6 years as Director of Choirs at Walled Lake Northern High School. While there he directed 4 daily choir’s, and was the producer and music director of the annual musical. Musicals he has been the music director include: Annie Get Your Gun, Anything Goes, Bye Bye Birdie, Camelot, Carousel, Chitty, Chitty Bang Bang, Damn Yankees, Guys and Dolls, Jekyll and Hyde, Les Miserables, Oklahoma, Once Upon A Mattress, Sound of Music, South Pacific, Tarzan, 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee, Wizard of Oz, Mary Poppins and this year Hairspray. While at Clarkston his choirs have performed in New York City, Chicago, St. Louis, and internationally at the Tuscany Choral Festival held in Montecatini Terme, Italy. He is the MSVMA District IV manager. Michael received his Bachelor of Music Education with a conducting emphasis, studying with Dr. Nina Nash-Robertson at Central Michigan University. He then returned there later to get his Masters of Music in Voice Performance, studying with Mr. Timothy Caldwell. He is an inaugural member of M.E.M.E. (Michigan educators Male Ensemble) that promotes male singing in schools. He has been married for 25 years to Kate Peterson and has 2 daughters, Grace and Madeline, both graduates of Clarkston High School.
Clarkston Junior High School Choirs
Eighth and Ninth Grade Choirs
These courses are designed to build upon the fundamentals of music performance. Skills learned at a younger age are improved, including vocal technique, music literacy, and stylistic interpretation. Students continue to refine the fundamentals needed to make informed musical decisions. Students will perform in concerts throughout the year including one adjudicated Band/Choir/Orchestra festival performance. Students can also choose to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival through the Michigan Schools Vocal Music Association.
Essential Skills:
Clarkston Junior High School students will continue to focus on reading progressively more challenging musical notation and will expand their vocal range. Skills cultivated at this level include
- refined pitch discrimination
- rhythm
- technical fluency
- tone
- breathing and breath control
- vowel shape
- diction
- intonation
- style
- interpretation
- sight-reading technique
- personal and ensemble presentation
- foreign language
Additionally, students will continue to develop leadership abilities and interpersonal skills, working independently and in collaborative ensembles.
Meet the Director
Michael Peterson
Michael Peterson has been teaching choral music for 25 years. His first three years were in Reese Public Schools as a general music teacher grades first through sixth grade and choral director of the Middle and High School Choirs. He has spent 15 years at Clarkston Community Schools directing the High School, Junior High, and Middle School Choirs overseeing 5 daily choir’s, and the music director of the annual musicals. He also spent 6 years as Director of Choirs at Walled Lake Northern High School. While there he directed 4 daily choir’s, and was the producer and music director of the annual musical. Musicals he has been the music director include: Annie Get Your Gun, Anything Goes, Bye Bye Birdie, Camelot, Carousel, Chitty, Chitty Bang Bang, Damn Yankees, Guys and Dolls, Jekyll and Hyde, Les Miserables, Oklahoma, Once Upon A Mattress, Sound of Music, South Pacific, Tarzan, 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee, Wizard of Oz, Mary Poppins and this year Hairspray. While at Clarkston his choirs have performed in New York City, Chicago, St. Louis, and internationally at the Tuscany Choral Festival held in Montecatini Terme, Italy. He is the MSVMA District IV manager. Michael received his Bachelor of Music Education with a conducting emphasis, studying with Dr. Nina Nash-Robertson at Central Michigan University. He then returned there later to get his Masters of Music in Voice Performance, studying with Mr. Timothy Caldwell. He is an inaugural member of M.E.M.E. (Michigan educators Male Ensemble) that promotes male singing in schools. He has been married for 25 years to Kate Peterson and has 2 daughters, Grace and Madeline, both graduates of Clarkston High School.
Clarkston High School Choirs
Concert Choir & Madrigals
These courses are designed to build upon the fundamentals of music performance. Skills learned at a younger age are improved, including vocal technique, music literacy, and stylistic interpretation. Students continue to refine the fundamentals needed to make informed musical decisions. Students will perform in concerts throughout the year including one adjudicated Band/Choir/Orchestra festival performance. Students can also choose to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival through the Michigan Schools Vocal Music Association.
Essential Skills:
Clarkston High School students will continue to focus on reading progressively more challenging musical notation and will expand the ranges of their voice. Skills cultivated at this level include
- refined pitch discrimination
- rhythm
- technical fluency
- tone
- breathing and breath control
- vowel shape
- diction
- intonation
- style
- interpretation
- sight-reading technique
- personal and ensemble presentation
- foreign language
Additionally, students will continue to develop leadership abilities and interpersonal skills, working independently and in collaborative ensembles.
Detroit Voice A Cappella
Detroit Voice is a Clarkston High School a cappella group that sings only music originating in Michigan and Motown music. Detroit Voice has recorded two full length albums "Sounds Like Home" (2012) and "More Than Motown" (2017). They are also featured on "Clarkston A Cappella, Volume 1" in which they have a song featuring Delilah from the show The Sing Off.
Detroit Voice has performed for Pentatonix, were featured performers of the Legends of Doo-Wop Tour, appeared at Motown Night for the Detroit Tigers, and were featured performers at the National A Cappella Convention in Memphis and the National High School A Cappella Festival in Kettering, Ohio.
Meet the Director
Michael Peterson
Michael Peterson has been teaching choral music for 25 years. His first three years were in Reese Public Schools as a general music teacher grades first through sixth grade and choral director of the Middle and High School Choirs. He has spent 15 years at Clarkston Community Schools directing the High School, Junior High, and Middle School Choirs overseeing 5 daily choir’s, and the music director of the annual musicals. He also spent 6 years as Director of Choirs at Walled Lake Northern High School. While there he directed 4 daily choir’s, and was the producer and music director of the annual musical. Musicals he has been the music director include: Annie Get Your Gun, Anything Goes, Bye Bye Birdie, Camelot, Carousel, Chitty, Chitty Bang Bang, Damn Yankees, Guys and Dolls, Jekyll and Hyde, Les Miserables, Oklahoma, Once Upon A Mattress, Sound of Music, South Pacific, Tarzan, 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee, Wizard of Oz, Mary Poppins and this year Hairspray. While at Clarkston his choirs have performed in New York City, Chicago, St. Louis, and internationally at the Tuscany Choral Festival held in Montecatini Terme, Italy. He is the MSVMA District IV manager. Michael received his Bachelor of Music Education with a conducting emphasis, studying with Dr. Nina Nash-Robertson at Central Michigan University. He then returned there later to get his Masters of Music in Voice Performance, studying with Mr. Timothy Caldwell. He is an inaugural member of M.E.M.E. (Michigan educators Male Ensemble) that promotes male singing in schools. He has been married for 25 years to Kate Peterson and has 2 daughters, Grace and Madeline, both graduates of Clarkston High School.
Sing to Inspire!
Orchestras
The Impact of Music Education on Children is Profound
Music does more than just make sounds, it changes the way we think and act. The skills your child will learn in music will help them be successful on the stage, in the classroom, and for the rest of their lives.
- Clarkston Schools Instrumental Music Association
- Sashabaw Middle School Orchestras
- Clarkston Junior High School Orchestras
- Clarkston High School Orchestras
Clarkston Schools Instrumental Music Association
BOOSTED BY PARENT SUPPORT
Clarkston fine and performing arts programs have an excellent reputation for producing outstanding young musicians and we owe much of that success to the support of our students' families.
The Clarkston Schools Instrumental Music Association (CSIMA) provides both moral and financial support to the 6-12 grade instrumental music programs of Clarkston Schools. CSIMA members serve as a resource to the instructional staff of the Clarkston Schools instrumental music programs by volunteering our individual skills and performing the fundraising necessary to enhance the school district’s funding of instrumental music programs. CSIMA meetings are the second month of every Monday of the month from September through May.
Sashabaw Middle School Orchestras
Sixth and Seventh Grade Orchestras
These courses are designed to teach students the fundamentals of music performance. Beginning in 6th grade and continuing through 7th grade, skills introduced include instrumental technique, music literacy, and an introduction to stylistic interpretation. Students learn the fundamentals needed to make informed musical decisions. Students will perform in concerts throughout the year including one adjudicated Band/Choir/Orchestra festival performance in 7th grade. Students can also choose to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival through the Michigan Schools Band and Orchestra Association.
Essential Skills:
Sashabaw Middle School students will focus on reading musical notation including pitch and rhythm. Skills introduced at this level include:
- instrument assembly and care
- how to hold an instrument or bow correctly
- posture
- pitch
- rhythm
- technical fluency
- tone
- breathing and breath control
- vowel shape
- diction
- intonation
- style
- interpretation
- sight-reading technique
- personal and ensemble presentation
- basic foreign language
Additionally, students will develop leadership abilities and interpersonal skills, working independently and in collaborative ensembles.
Uniform Information
Uniformity is extremely important for performances. When members of an ensemble are dressed alike, the ensemble appears as one unit and those in the audience are more apt to hear the entire group rather than focusing on individual students. If a family is unable to provide any part of the SMS Concert uniform, please contact your director by the end of September.
6th Grade Uniform: Students are to wear black shoes, black dress slacks or a skirt of appropriate length, black socks, black tights or hose, and a white, long-sleeve, button-front shirt.
7th Grade Uniform: Students are to wear all black shoes, black dress slacks or a skirt (knee length or longer), black socks, black tights or hose, a white, long-sleeve, button front shirt, and the SMS band vest (provided by the music department). The vest must be returned at the end of the school year.
Clarkston Junior High School Orchestras
Eighth and Ninth Grade Orchestras
These courses are designed to build upon the fundamentals of music performance. Skills learned at a younger age are improved, including instrumental technique, music literacy, and stylistic interpretation. Students continue to refine the fundamentals needed to make informed musical decisions. Students will perform in concerts throughout the year including one adjudicated Band/Choir/Orchestra festival performance. Students can also choose to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival through the Michigan Schools Band and Orchestra Association.
Essential Skills:
Clarkston Junior High School students will continue to focus on reading progressively more challenging musical notation and will expand the ranges of their instrument. Skills cultivated at this level include
- refined pitch discrimination
- rhythm
- technical fluency
- tone
- breathing and breath control
- vowel shape
- diction
- intonation
- style
- interpretation
- sight-reading technique
- personal and ensemble presentation
- foreign language
Additionally, students will continue to develop leadership abilities and interpersonal skills, working independently and in collaborative ensembles.
Clarkston High School Orchestras
High School Orchestras
These courses are designed to build upon the fundamentals of music performance. Skills learned at a younger age are improved, including instrumental technique, music literacy, and stylistic interpretation. Students continue to refine the fundamentals needed to make informed musical decisions. Students will perform in concerts throughout the year including one adjudicated Band/Choir/Orchestra festival performance. Students can also choose to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival through the Michigan Schools Band and Orchestra Association.
Essential Skills:
Clarkston High School students will continue to focus on reading progressively more challenging musical notation and will expand the ranges of their instrument. Skills cultivated at this level include:
- refined pitch discrimination
- rhythm
- technical fluency
- tone
- breathing and breath control
- vowel shape
- diction
- intonation
- style
- interpretation
- sight-reading technique
- personal and ensemble presentation
- foreign language
Additionally, students will continue to develop leadership abilities and interpersonal skills, working independently and in collaborative ensembles.
Be A Part of the Orchestra
Theatre Arts
The Positive Impact of Theatre Education on Children
Theatre training encourages engagement and has a positive impact on academic, emotional and social development. Kids who participate in theatre programs take a unique set of skills with them throughout their lives, making them more creative, confident and productive individuals. But the best part of getting involved in Clarkston theatre programs is that they're fun!
A Role for everyone
- Children's Theatre
- Dramatics
- Play Production
- Advanced Acting
- Mime
- Technical Theatre
- Scenic Design
- Stage Lighting
- Costuming
- Promotion
Troupe 803 Drama Club Page
Support CHS Drama Club
Patrons, Angels, and Saints
Was drama club your home away from home? Never been on stage before but love watching live theatre? You can help keep theatre and the arts alive in Clarkston! Theatre is an incredibly expensive venture and the CHS Drama Club is self funded. Every year we participate in the Patrons, Angels, and Saints donation drive to help offset the costs of our theatrical productions. Every donation, no matter how big or small helps! All donors (received by our printer's deadline) will be listed in our program for everyone to see. Between the straight play and the musical, your generous gift will be recognized by over 5000 people!
Donation Levels:
- Footlights: $5.00
- Catwalk: $10.00
- Stage Hands: $20.00
- Patrons: $30.00
- Angels: $50.00
- Rising Star: $75.00
- Saint: $100.00
- Off Broadway: $200.00
- Broadway Bound!: $500.00+
- Tony Award Winner: $1,000.00+
CHS Drama Club History
Past Winter Shows
- 1968 - "The Boyfriend"
- 1969 - "South Pacific"
- 1970 - "Oklahoma"
- 1971 - "Gypsy"
- 1972 - "Once Upon A Mattress"
- 1973 - "Sound of Music"
- 1974 - "Fiddler On The Roof"
- 1974 - "Fantastics"
- 1975 - "Music Man"
- 1976 - "Camelot"
- 1977 - "Guys and Dolls"
- 1978 - "King and I"
- 1979 - "Annie Get Your Gun"
- 1979 - "Carnival
- 1980 - "Carousel"
- 1981 - "Once Upon A Mattress"
- 1981 - "West Side Story"
- 1982 - "Paint Your Wagon"
- 1983 - "Guys and Dolls"
- 1984 - "Brigadoon"
- 1985 - "Kiss Me Kate"
- 1986 - "Oklahoma"
- 1987 - "Hello Dolly"
- 1988 - "My Fair Lady"
- 1989 - "The Boyfriend"
- 1990 - "Annie Get Your Gun"
- 1991 - "Once Upon A Mattress"
- 1992 - "Grease"
- 1993 - "Wizard of Oz"
- 1994 - "The Pajama Game"
- 1995 - "Bye Bye Birdie"
- 1996 - "Music Man"
- 1997 - "Guys and Dolls"
- 1998 - "Lil' Abner"
- 1999 - "Camelot"
- 2000 - "Anything Goes"
- 2001 - "Crazy For You"
- 2002 - "Oklahoma"
- 2003 - "How to Succeed In Business Without Really Trying"
- 2004 - "Once Upon A Mattress"
- 2005 - "Annie Get Your Gun"
- 2006 - "The Boyfriend"
- 2007 - "Sound of Music"
- 2007 - "Pink Panther"
- 2008 - "South Pacific"
- 2009 - "Footloose"
- 2010 - "Grease"
- 2011 - "Cinderella"
- 2012 - "Thoroughly Modern Millie"
- 2013 - "Disney's Beauty and The Beast"
- 2014 - "Peter Pan"
- 2015 - "Bye Bye Birdie"
- 2016 - "Carousel"
- 2017 - "Les Miserables"
- 2018 - "Mary Poppins"
Past Spring Shows
- 1992 - "Up the Down Staircase"
- 1995 - “The Outsiders”
- 1996 - “The Matchmaker”
- 1997 - “The Stuck Pot”
- 2000 - "Our Town"
- 2001 - “You Can’t Take it With You”
- 2003 - “Moon Over Buffalo”
- 2005 - "Cheaper by the Dozen"
- 2006 - "The Yellow Boat"
- 2007 - “Fools”
- 2009 - “Lend Me a Tenor”
- 2010 - “Father of the Bride"
- 2011 - "Justice in Dusty Junction"
- 2012 - "Victor Gianelli’s “Frankenstein”
- 2013 - “Sylvia”
- 2014 - “Almost, Maine”
- 2015 - “Leading Ladies”
- 2016 - "The Curious Savage”
- 2017 - "The 25th Annual Putnum County Spelling Bee"
- 2018 - "The Diary of Anne Frank"
"There's nothing quite as dark as a blacked-out stage. Stand for five minutes center stage, alone, and the darkness and the silence can spook you. They say every theatre has a ghost, and I believe it. Standing there, you can't help hearing voices after a time. I hear them, anyway...And when the last show of the last production is over, and everyone has gone home, it makes me feel (like right now) as if I have just lost my best friend. It makes me feel how beautiful things could be, if life were only one long production in which we were all consummately involved."
Excerpts from Giving Up the Ghost by Lou Korty
(Read at the end of every musical theatre production at Clarkston High School)
Visual Arts
Learning to draw and think creatively helps prepare students for the future!
Learning to paint, create a website, or design an energy-efficient home requires mastering skills that are developed through a strong visual arts education.
Art Education Matters
Unmatched Visual Arts Curriculum
- Elementary Art Program
- Art Introduction
- Elements of Art
- Drawing
- Painting & Printmaking
- Principles of Design
- Ceramics & Sculpture
- Mixed Media
- Digital Illustration
- Advanced Digital Photography
- Computer Graphics (Photoshop)
- Computer Graphics (Illustrator)
- Mathtastic Art
- Advanced Drawing & Painting
- Art History