According to Americans for the Arts, art teaches children life skills such as developing an informed perception, learning how to solve problems and make decisions, and building self-confidence and self-discipline. Art also helps students accept responsibility to complete tasks from start to finish. Artistic abilities come in various forms: playing instruments, sculpting, dancing or singing.
Some teachers have experience with music, including counselor Cathy Utter.
“Being in the arts was really a magical experience in high school,” Utter said. “Being in many different groups such as band, choir, and marching band, really helped you get to know your ‘peer group’. During my senior year, I auditioned for Musical Youth and was lucky enough to get in. It was a huge stepping stone in my life.”
The Musical Youth Program allowed Utter to travel around Europe to compete in countries like England and Scotland.
“The Musical Youth Program was a three month tour,” Utter said. “I enjoyed it because I got to make music with many people from other countries. Honestly, there couldn’t be anything better in life than to share my musical talent with other students.”
Like Utter, many students have a similar passion for the arts. Senior Justin DeGroat is using his love for music to pursue a degree in the arts.
“I’m going to college for music production and some film scoring,” Degroat said. “I like making music sound good and editing music. I really like Music Tech class so it’s something I would pursue as a career.”
Many students who are planning to attend college for the arts, go through a different application process than those who are attending college for academics. For those interested in attending art colleges like DeGroat, a submission of a portfolio is crucial to their admittance.
“I have to do a normal college application, then submit a portfolio with projects that I’ve done and pieces that I’ve wrote and produced,” DeGroat said. “Then if the colleges like it they invite me to audition on an instrument to get into their music school.”
While majoring in art might not be for everyone, many students take advantage of art courses offered at Fenton High. Students attend art classes to reflect on their creativity.
“I love being in Varsity Vocals,” sophomore Leah Lynch said. “Even though it may be hard to some people, it helps you improve your vocal ability.”
As some people are aware, sculpture is a popular class for sophomores.
“A lot of sophomores this year are taking sculpture,” sophomore Cassidy Curtis said. “It is so much fun and making things is even more fun, especially when our sculptures could be possibly shown at our school art shows.”
For students looking into the arts, think of joining choir, band, or one of the many art classes offered in the curriculum.