Music
Music

MUSIC

The arts high school music program is designed for dedicated music students with a broad range of musical interests.

Across the musical spectrum, students focus on developing fluency in musical language, performance, and compositional artistry and technique. We are looking for students who are passionate about the study of music, open to many musical styles and cultures, and eager to cultivate their unique musical voice.

Students divide their time in the afternoons between music seminars and small non-conducted ensembles. Seminars, which change quarterly, focus on a wide range of musical topics including theory, musical styles, history, improvisation, vocal music interpretation, and music production.

The small ensembles of the arts high school foster the development of a personal musical voice by enabling students to choose ensemble members and music, and by encouraging a collaborative approach to rehearsal. Ensembles are challenged each quarter to write at least one original composition as part of their set for the concert. Music generated in ensembles is performed during the quarterly Sound Works series. View past Sound Works music concerts here.

Music students also end the year with an independent project. They are tasked with submitting a project proposal and then working with an instructor-advisor to work through the logistics and details of the project to fruition. These projects – chosen from the options of a performance, a recording, or a research project – are presented during the last month of school as part of a two-week showcase. This gives students the opportunity to dive deeper into a subject that they may not encounter during their time at Perpich.

Two girls playing guitars
Arts High School

Plan your Visit

Are you thinking Perpich Arts High School might be the place for you? We would welcome a visit from you to learn more! Check our schedule for Information Sessions or contact Admissions to plan a shadow day.

“Perpich is the best school for me because it provides a diverse student population, artistic environment, and academic opportunities that can't be found anywhere else in the state.”

Literary Arts Student from Plymouth

“My teachers encourage me to push myself outside of my comfort zone and to always strive to better my art, never settling for good enough.”

Theater Student from Sartell

"For 17 years I’d carried the bulk of my children’s education myself. Sending the two oldest away to Perpich was a huge step of faith and I have not been disappointed. The teachers, in particular, have been fabulous!"

Perpich Arts High School Parent

"[Perpich] was a hugely formative experience for me and I think gave me many of the tools to get to this point of doing meaningful work that I love."

Andrew Edman (Visual Arts 2005)

“From the moment I came to Perpich, it was like a college campus, with an emphasis on independence and finding your own self, with training in academics and becoming an artist.”

Trent Ramert (Theater 2020)

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