Arts

Arts at GPS

Where Girls Create

Not every girl will become an artist, but each girl learns to be a creator.

The Fine and Performing Arts program at GPS is a cornerstone for educating and engaging the whole girl. In this safe and supportive space, students master a creative process that instills confidence and hones problem-solving skills. Whether a girl aspires to be a software engineer, a painter, an accountant, or any other profession, the skills and experiences gained through the arts program will benefit her throughout her life. Fine and Performing Arts at GPS is not only about cultivating artists; it's about empowering girls to become innovative, resilient, and well-rounded individuals.

Amanda Byars, Director of Fine and Performing Arts

Welcome to GPS Fine & Performing Arts!

At GPS, we create an environment that encourages girls to fearlessly take risks as they explore their artistry, uncover hidden talents, define their personal aesthetic, and expand their creative potential. Whether through sculpture, song, soliloquy, or dance, the arts provide an outlet for self-expression that allows each girl to find and develop her unique voice. Learning to think like an artist offers advantages far beyond the studio or stage. Research shows that children who study the arts are three to four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, be elected to a class office, and enter academic competitions such as science fairs or writing contests. And that drive carries them into the future. Whether she chooses to pursue the arts in a professional capacity or applies the skills she has learned to another field, being creative opens up a world of possibilities.

We understand that each girl is an individual, and her journey through the arts should be specific to her. In addition to classroom opportunities, students are invited to participate in cocurricular offerings. I encourage you to learn more about GPS, our robust arts programming that helps each student find her passion, and the unique way we educate and engage the whole girl. Please reach out to me if you have any questions or want additional information about how our program is designed to help girls thrive.

Here's to the girls!
Amanda Byars
Director of Fine and Performing Arts

2024_GPSAtAGlance
2024_GPSAtAGlance2
2024_GPSAtAGlance3
2024_GPSAtAGlance4
2024_GPSAtAGlance5
2024_GPSAtAGlance6

1 / 6

Upcoming Events

List of 5 events.

Jan

11

Winter One Acts
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Jan

12

Winter One Acts
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Feb

4

Upper School Dance Ensemble/ Motion Makers Concert
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Feb

28

Terpsichord Spring Concert
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Mar

1

Terpsichord Spring Concert
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

The Arts Curriculum

Engaging different parts of her brain, the arts are uniquely positioned to support learning. It begins in middle school, with dance, drama, visual arts, and music—all required in sixth and seventh grade. From there she can craft her own path, with more than 40 arts classes to choose from throughout her GPS career.

List of 4 items.

+ Visual Arts

The fine arts curriculum at GPS offers students a strong foundation in art elements and design principles while developing organizational and group-thinking skills. From sun-filled studios, girls engage in creative storytelling as well as group critiques and research.
+ Dance

Among four beautiful dance studios, beginning and advanced dancers can find supportive outlets for discovery and mastery of skill. The girls learn dances from around the world, enhancing their global studies and cultural awareness.
+ Theater

In addition to our in-school curriculum, the theater department—in coordination with the McCallie School—stages four coed theatrical productions every year, two in middle school and two in upper school. Opportunities exist for actors, technical crew members, and students seeking leadership opportunities like assistant director or stage manager. Traditional plays take place in McCallie's Black Box while high caliber musicals are performed in our Frierson Theatre.
+ Music

From exploring various types of music and instruments in sixth grade to more formal orchestra, pep band, or choruses in upper school, music lovers can thrive in their chosen musical avenues throughout their entire GPS journey.