Performing Arts
Middle school students enhance their artistic abilities with further studies in their field by building upon a strong foundation of the basic elements. They are encouraged to broaden their creative thinking, explore new ideas, and challenge themselves as they progressively work on mastering their skills. More opportunities are available for them to showcase their abilities as they strive for excellence in their art focus.
Band
Concert Band
The Concert Band is open to 6th or 7th graders who have had little or no previous band experience. The class focuses primarily on performance literature of standard band repertoire at the beginning to intermediate level.
Symphonic Band
The Symphonic Band is open to students who have had previous band experience and are predominantly in 7th grade. The class focuses primarily on performance literature of standard band repertoire at the intermediate level.
Wind Ensemble
The Wind Ensemble is open to band instrument players who are predominantly in 8th grade. The class focuses primarily on performance literature of standard band repertoire at the intermediate level.
Choir
YISS Girls Choir & Boys Choir
The YISS Girls Choir and Boys Choir are performance-based classes/ensembles where choral music is the medium through which music is taught. Students are taught basic skills in singing, listening to and reading music, as well as performing. Any student in 6th grade can join his/her respective choir.
Guardian Singers
The Guardian Singers is a mixed choral ensemble for students in 7th or 8th grade. In addition to learning proper vocal production and techniques, students also develop song repertoire, listening skills, team building, and leadership skills, while experiencing the interrelated nature of music with other content areas. It is a performance-based class that enhances the musical, creative, and expressive qualities of students.
Orchestra
Preludium
Preludium is a 6th & 7th grade orchestra oriented toward the development of basic music reading and ensemble skills through performance literature at the beginner to grade 2 level.
Sinfonia
Sinfonia is a 6th & 7th grade orchestra aimed at further developing musicianship and instrumental technique in the context of an ensemble performing grade 2-3 music.
Chamber
Chamber is a 7th & 8th grade orchestra focused on comprehensive musicianship and refined instrumental technique through the performance of grade 3-4 ensemble literature.
All orchestras incorporate knowledge and skills beyond instrumental technique: ensemble skills, sight reading, music theory, culture and history, composition, improvisation, music technology, careers, and more.
Music Festivals
YISS is a member of the Korean-American Interscholastic Activities Conference (KAIAC) and the Korea International Music Educators Association (KIMEA) and participates in annual music festivals.
- KAIAC Fall Large Group Festival
- KAIAC National Honor Jazz Festival
- KIMEA MS Honor Band Festival
- KIMEA MS Honor Choir Festival
- KIMEA MS Honor Orchestra Festival
- KAIAC Spring Large Group Band Festival
- KAIAC Spring Large Group Choral Festival
- KAIAC Spring Large Group String Festival
- KIMEA Solo & Ensemble Festival
Drama & Theatre
Drama 6
Drama 6 is an introduction to the field of theater arts. Students become acquainted with the basic vocabulary and terms associated with drama, along with a general overview of acting, set design, lighting, sound, and directing.
Drama 7
In Drama 7, students learn how to communicate and work as an acting ensemble. Through improv activities and reflection journals, students are challenged to step outside of their comfort zones and collaborate with classmates.
Drama 8
Drama 8 is designed to give students a chance to explore the concept of "improv acting" in order to increase their confidence and quick-thinking both on and off stage. They also delve into scriptwriting, storytelling, and monologu performance.
Theatre Productions
At least one major production is performed each academic year. Auditions are open to students in middle and high school, with priority being given to high school students. Many of these productions are linked directly to the curriculum, and cross-curricular connections are made as often and directly as possible. These events are family-friendly and open to all members of the YISS community.
Previous Productions
- A Comedy of Errors – Spring 2017
- Fiddler on the Roof, Jr. – Spring 2016
- Antigone – Fall 2015
- Mulan, Jr. – Spring 2015
- Shadowed Stories – Fall 2014
- Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – Spring 2014
- Pride and Prejudice – Fall 2013
- The Importance of Being Earnest – Spring 2013
- A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Fall 2012
- Aladdin – Spring 2012
Performing Arts Clubs
Activities vary each year as teachers offer their expertise. Below is a sample of performing arts clubs that have been offered in the past.
- Improvisation (Drama) Club
- Jazz Band
- Tri-M Music Honor Society