Arts

At Country Day, the arts aren’t just an add-on—they’re at the heart of a rich and dynamic education from JK–12. Creativity thrives in our classrooms, studios, and stages, where students explore visual art, vocal and instrumental music, and drama—each a powerful expression of the human spirit.

The entire school community is energized by the remarkable talents of our students and teachers through captivating performances, thought-provoking exhibits, and inspiring productions. More than just a program, the arts at Country Day are a celebration—of personal expression, cultural connection, and the boundless reach of imagination.

In This Section

Visual Arts

Our visual arts program develops our students' talents and abilities at all levels.

Music

Comprehensive music instruction begins as young as JK and older students can take band, orchestra, and choir.

Drama

Every student begins performing on stage as young as JK. Middle and Upper School students perform in plays and musicals.

Arts Events

Celebrating the Arts

Artists in Residence Program

The Artists in Residence Program provides students with a unique, hands-on experience that immerses them in art and culture. Visiting artists collaborate directly with Middle and Upper School students on special projects, sharing their expertise and creative processes. Whether it’s crafting mosaics, painting murals, producing videos, composing music scores, sewing quilts, or designing bronze sculptures, students have the opportunity to learn from renowned artists with national and international acclaim. This exposure broadens their artistic perspectives and inspires creativity across disciplines.

JK–12 Annual Art Exhibit

Every year, students in grades JK–12 are encouraged to submit artwork for inclusion in the All-School Art Show. This annual exhibit showcases the creativity and talent of our students, offering a platform for them to express themselves and be celebrated for their artistic achievements. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the entire school community to appreciate the diverse range of artistic styles and perspectives.

Friends of the Arts (FOTA)

FOTA is a volunteer parent organization dedicated to supporting Country Day's fine arts program in all divisions by recruiting and inspiring volunteers to help at school exhibitions, concerts, productions, and other arts events.

70

play performances, musicals, concerts, and exhibits are presented each year by students in grades JK–12.

31+

Blumey Award nominations and 5 NC Theatre Conference State Championship wins by our Upper School Theater program.

20+

Number of prestigious music events and programs where our student musicians compete and earn recognition at top state and regional competitions.

8

Vocal and instrumental groups in Middle and Upper School, including orchestra, band, choir, and a cappella.

39

Average number of Upper School fine arts courses, from Concert Choir and Symphonic Band to AP Sculpture and IB Theater Arts.

100%

Students participate in theater in all grades.

Arts Facilities

Our striking and inspirational facilities provide opportunities for our students to explore personal expression and creative imaginations.

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Hance Fine Arts Center

This beautiful 45,730-square-foot building includes an art gallery, four visual arts studios, photography studio with two darkrooms, ceramics/3-D studio, Black Box Theater, two-story dance studio, music suite, practice rooms, computer graphics classroom, and a student publication center.

Hance Family Gallery

Housed in the Hance Fine Arts Center, the gallery exhibits artwork from our students, faculty, alumni, and visiting artists. Every year, JK–12 students are encouraged to submit artwork for inclusion in the All-School Art Show.

Ceramics Studio

The ceramics/3-D studio features a range of tools, equipment, and materials to support students in hand-building, wheel throwing, glazing, and firing clay pieces.

Gorelick Family Theater

Our main performance space, the Gorelick Family Theater seats about 400 and provides a venue for more than 70 award-winning plays and musicals, concerts, special events, lectures, and assemblies each year for students and parents.

Lower School Fine Arts Center

The Lower School Fine Arts Center houses the Gorelick Family Theater, which is used by all students in grades JK–12 for performances. The building also includes two child-scaled art studios, ceramics studio, piano studios for individual instruction, a dance room, a music classroom, and the Dalton Gallery, which is used to exhibit art from all three divisions.

Bissell Campus Arts Facilities

Our Middle School campus features space for band, choir, orchestra, General Music, drama, and three visual arts rooms.

A Glimpse into the Arts

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Former Buccaneers Pursuing Arts at the Collegiate Level

Many of our Country Day Bucs attend these prestigious art schools and programs.