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The arts at Utterback are synonymous with excellence. The expert arts specialists bring students with varied experience, from beginning to advanced, to high levels of achievement. The many performance and showcase opportunities increase motivation to exceed expectations in all arts disciplines. Arts teachers work closely with academic staff to infuse arts in all subjects and presentations. Evening concerts and shows at Utterback are played to a full house, as many community members come to enjoy the high caliber performances in the 400 seat theater. Field trips to see professional artists, as well as guest artists at school are a part of all the arts programs and serve to broaden the students’ experiences. Many 21st Century skills, such as collaboration, self direction, critical thinking and creativity are best learned in arts programs.

 

Band

There are four bands at Utterback: Cadet Band, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band and Jazz Band. In each band, students improve their skills in reading music, dynamics of music, music vocabulary and music history. Bands have at least three concerts each school year and also will attend an adjudicated festival. Jazz band also performs for special functions throughout Tucson.

Dance

All styles of dance are taught at Utterback with an emphasis on contemporary dance and choreography. Dancers study performance, technique, dancers’ health and injury prevention, the influences of culture on dance, dance history, and costuming and stage setting. Advanced classes have a minimum of two concerts per year and beginning classes will have studio performances during the school day.

Drama

In each of the four levels of drama students learn theater games, acting skills, and to work as an ensemble. Students write and perform their own skits and plays. Drama classes present at least two performances during the year.

Guitar

Guitar classes are new to Utterback, but students are already learning the fundamentals of music and performance. Reading music as well as training the ear allows students to improve every day. Avariety of music styles are investigated including blues guitar, classical guitar and flamenco. Guitar students perform during all Orchestra concerts.

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Graphic Design

Elements of art and principles of design are taught through the Graphic Design and Computer Skills classes. Students learn and apply skills in graphic arts, and photography. Opportunities to create digital portfolios, websites and other presentations are a part of each of these courses.

Orchestra

The orchestras at Utterback are for students with all levels of experience: Cadet Orchestra focuses on the fundamentals of each of the string instruments while the most advanced class, Lab Orchestra refines and expands the skills of students who demonstrate fluency on their instrument. All orchestras perform in two concerts, participate in one festival and attend several concerts.

Video Production

Students in video production learn and practice the skills of film making. From storyboarding through using the cameras through editing and post production publicity and everything in between, these artists use many 21st century skills to hone their craft.

Visual Arts

The elements of art and the principles of design are the basis for all art projects in the visual art classes.
An understanding of these fundamentals allows students to create works of art through many medium such as drawing, painting, weaving, clay, jewelry/metal craft, murals, puppets and much more. The GASP (Great Art by Students and Professionals) students work with professional art in a gallery setting as they are the curators of the Utterback GASP Gallery.

Physical Education

While not one of the arts disciplines, PE is an elective choice for all 7th and 8th grade students. Personal fitness is emphasized along with skill building in individual and team sports. Students receive health lessons weekly to ensure their understanding of the many factors involved in wellness.