Art, Dance, Music Clubs

 Art Club
Advisor: Ms. Dawn Massa ([email protected])

The main focus of the Middle School Art Club is to provide students with the opportunity for creative exploration, self-discovery and experimentation in a teacher-guided, yet self-directed, working environment that simulates how artists work in a real-world environment. Particular emphasis is placed on the following dynamics at play in the creative process: visual problem-solving, personal interest and "voice," risk-taking and experimentation, collaboration, mystery, serious plan and the importance of "Allowing Art to bring them where it wants to go..." discovery. Other responsibilities and activities include setting up and designing designated display areas.
Dance Team
Advisor:

The middle school dance team is made up of 7th and 8th grade students. The group meets weekly and will focus on development in the dance genres of jazz, lyrical, musical theater, and hiphop. The coach will guide them through various techniques of dance and they will learn performance value, staging, and the function of costumes, all while being a part of a team.

All of their hard work accumulates into a showcase, combining with the high school teams to put on a dazzling night of dancing. As the team grows we will also be involved in more school wide activities. Being on the middle school dance team at West Essex is a great way to prepare for the high schools rigorous audition only teams. All students welcome! No dance background needed, only commitment and passion!
Music Activities: All-Girls Pop Chorus
Advisor: Mrs. Christa Rizzo ([email protected])

This auditioned group is open to selected students bu audition in the 7th and 8th grades. Rehearsals are Tuesdays after school from January to May. The group performs for the Spring school concert, music festivals, and community service events.
Music Activities: Glee Club
Advisor: Mrs. Christa Rizzo ([email protected])

Students in the 7th & 8th grades can participate in this vocal ensemble. The group rehearses every Wednesday from September through May. The group performs for school concerts, music festivals, and community service events.
Music Activities: Select Choir
Advisor: Christa Rizzo ([email protected])

This group is open to 7th and 8th graders selected by audition.  Rehearsals are on Tuesdays after school from January to May.  The group performs for the Spring Concert, music festivals, and community service events.
Music Activities – String Ensemble
Advisor: Ms. Caitlin Shroyer  ([email protected])

The Middle School String Ensemble is an after school music program that provides students opportunity for performance in addition to the MS Orchestra. Participation in the group is determined by audition and enrollment in the orchestral program is not a prerequisite. The group performs a more varied repertoire ranging from the Baroque to the Contemporary.
Music Activities -Jazz Ensemble
Advisor:

Jazz Ensemble is a 7th & 8th grade select ensemble that provides students opportunity for performance in addition to the MS Band.