The visual and performing arts classrooms at Cherokee Christian Schools provide students an environment where the process of discovery, exploration and creativity is celebrated. Their creative ability is developed into talent through practice and perseverance. The students are encouraged to evaluate and use their abilities as a means to inspire others, to uplift and elevate, to touch the hearts of men.

“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8

Students in grades K-6th receive general music instruction which builds on the elements of music, music theory and historical perspectives. Recorders are introduced in 4th grade. In 7th and 8th grades instruction focuses on forms of music, the orchestral families and more in-depth historical perspectives. In addition, students in 6th, 7th and 8th grade have the option of adding one arts elective to their schedule. If they decide to follow a music track their choices include Choral Ensemble or Instrumental Ensemble.

The visual arts program at Cherokee Christian Schools from Kindergarten through High School provides students with a strong arts foundation. The basic elements of design used by an artist when creating a work of art (color, value, line, shape, form, texture and space) are thoroughly explored. Students learn art principles including balance, emphasis, harmony, variety, gradation, movement, rhythm and proportion. Each develops abilities to express ideas in original works of art in many mediums, develop an understanding of art and artists of different cultures and historical periods, and learn to evaluate their own artworks and the work of others. The students are given ample opportunities for collaborative team work and problem solving.

General art instruction is provided for students K-6th. Middle School students (6, 7, 8) have the opportunity to add one arts elective to their schedule. They may decide to choose the visual art elective, where specific techniques, artists and art periods are studied in-depth.

In High School students have the option of taking Studio Art, which explores many mediums and artists, and/or Digital Design, which introduces the students to the Adobe CS4 suite of products.

Middle School students (6, 7, 8) have the opportunity to add one arts elective to their schedule. They may decide to choose the drama elective, which introduces students to theatre as an art form. Emphasis is placed on developing the voice, body, and imagination through the use of theatre games, improvisation and ensemble exercises. Each student will have the opportunity to act and/or work with technical aspects of theatre in at least one Middle School production. Theatre story, culture and technology will also be examined. Through creating theater, students grow in their ability to comprehend the world and to communicate with others.

In High School students may elect to take Theatre Arts or Theatre Tech, which are year long, repeatable courses designed to give the student an increased appreciation of and additional experience in theater as an art form. The student will act, direct, or be technically involved in scenes, one-act plays or full length productions. They will read, write and evaluate plays as well as view and critique electronic and live performances. History, culture and technology will be examined, and career opportunities will be explored. Through creating theater, students will grow in their ability to comprehend the world and to communicate with others.