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Visual &
Performing Arts










VISUAL and PERFORMING ARTS

Music
John Adams has an exceptionally strong music program. All interested students are invited to participate in any music class, ranging from beginning to advanced levels in both choral and instrumental music. Students are offered a great opportunity to develop their musical skills at their own pace and will develop a sense of honor and pride in their school as they participate in any of the performing groups:

For students who wish to begin instruction on a second instrument (woodwind or brass), Music Conversion offers a unique experience for personal enrichment as well as an opportunity to play a more specialized instrument (i.e. oboe, bassoon, french horn, euphonium) in one of the three concert bands.

There are also extra-curricular music opportunities for advanced students who are currently enrolled in the music program. These ensembles are the prestigious Madrigal Singers and the fabulous Jazz Band. In addition to school concerts, many of the musicians participate annually in competitive and non-competitive Festivals, Southern California Honor Groups, All-State Honor Groups, and solo auditions. Participation in any of the music groups allows students to feel like they are part of a smaller learning community within John Adams and helps them to form bonds that last a lifetime! View Music Calendar

Visual Art
The John Adams Visual Art education curriculum has been developed in alignment with both the National and California state standards.  In addition, the SMMUSD has a comprehensive visual and performing arts framework of standards and goals that all of our schools strictly adhere to.  All of the district schools communicate and collaborate regularly to ensure that we scaffold visual and performing arts curriculum appropriately between grade levels within our visual and performing arts program. 
Dance
John Adams offers a curricular dance class to students who are interested in learning a variety of multicultural dances. This program made its debut in 2006, and is growing with interest. Students will learn various dances at the beginning level in an intimate learning environment. Cooperation is key as students learn to choreograph and perform dances. All interested students are encouraged to join the JAMS Dance family!
Drama
The John Adams drama program introduces students to the elements of theatre and enables them to develop theatrical skills while improving their comfort level and ability to perform. Students will perform improvisation to improve skills in communication and presentation. The 7th grade drama class has worked with puppet theatre, culminating in puppet presentations at the JAMS pathway elementary schools, and the 8th grade drama class performs a major production of an original play. In addition, students attend various plays both locally (UCLA's Royce Hall, Miles Playhouse, Geffen Theatre) as well as at the Broadway Theatre in New York City.