Denton Classical Academy
ART & MUSIC NEWSLETTER

Modern Meets Classic

Braiden (K), Dallas (1st), Kevin (2nd), Jack (3rd), and Marlee (4th) show off their Georgia O’Keeffe flowers.

Have there been a plethora of large flowers drawn in your house? How about Monsters? Maybe you’ve witnessed an intricate pumpkin being washed with warm or cool colors?

Or perhaps you have caught your child humming a patriotic tune?  Or discussing Gustav Holst’s “Jupiter”? Or maybe drumming a catchy rhythm?

If you have witnessed any of these moments, then I am one proud teacher.

What exactly *HAVE* we been doing in Art & Music classes?  A whole lot!

We have had a lot of fun in Art this semester. After studying “The Mother of American Modernism”, your children have spent the past month perfecting  their own Georgia O’Keeffe style flowers. We coupled our artist spotlight with instruction on color theory - primary & secondary colors, hues, shades, and tints-. So these aren’t just *any* flowers. These are the result of much time and study. To make their masterpieces, the children experimented with a new medium: oil pastels. This allowed them to shade and tint each petal, bringing depth to the flower as a whole. So much effort has gone into their work, and I am so very proud of the result. I think they’re pretty proud of themselves, too.

Music has been wonderful as well. Besides learning the 3 most classic patriotic songs (My Country Tis of Thee, The Star Spangled Banner, and America the Beautiful), the lower and upper grades have been studying Music Theory and Music Appreciation, respectively. Kindergarten, First and Second Grades have spent their class time learning about and practicing Dynamics, Pitch, Tempo, Rhythm, and Articulation.  Third and Fourth Grades have been listening to and critiquing the series of movements by Composer Gustav Holst entitled, “The Planets”.

Though this is only a quick snapshot of our current Fine Arts study, you can rest assured that your children are soaking in the works of the very best artists and composers. What a privilege to be able to bring them the finest things on a daily basis!

One quick note-- I have had several questions about when students will be bringing their artwork home. Because we plan to host a Fine Arts Show in the spring, all student artwork will remain at school until the show’s conclusion. It is important to keep their work in pristine condition so that Parents and Grandparents can be wowed by their artistry!

BUT, should you wish to view your child’s artwork, feel free to come and visit our school gallery! There will be a regular display of student work in our commons area.

As always, it is truly a delight to be a part of your child’s Fine Arts studies.  I look forward to the coming months, as we have some *really* exciting projects ahead!

Blessings,

Alicia Underwood
Art & Music Instructor