We believe that music is an essential ingredient in human development that enriches childhood life and fosters lifelong community and family connection. For this reason, USM has embraced the Music Together program to bring high quality music and movement experiences to our Preschool students.

Lower School students experience music as part of a hands-on curriculum that includes singing, playing rhythmic instruments, and moving. As students progress in Lower School, they learn basic music reading and notation, composing, music history, and world music. A curricular performance is held every year for each grade.

The Lower School dance program is centered on teaching the whole child to move and understand the art of dance. The school year concludes with a curricular dance concert, showcasing the 3rd and 4th grade students and their creativity both through dance and composition. USM features a dedicated dance studio where students are able to dance and hone their skills.

In Middle School, all students study performance-based music in band, choir, or orchestra. Musicians learn and respond to music that incorporates the study of history, theory, literature, genres, and world cultures. Students prepare for two concerts throughout the school year. Additionally, 8th grade students have the option to explore music technology. Middle School students also have the opportunity to take part in the solo/ensemble festival every year, and many USM students advance to the state competition.

The USM Middle School drama program offers students the valuable opportunity to learn performance skills while shaping important life skills. Students begin with discovering the various elements of theatre: acting, directing, technical design, and playwriting. They gain experience in each of these facets through performance and several research-based group projects. Middle School drama offers students opportunities to take risks, grow through collaboration, and learn through ensemble building teamwork. Additionally, the Middle School program offers two fully staged productions a year for students who wish to share their passions with the USM and surrounding communities.

Upper School musicians continue to study music through orchestra, band, choir, music technology, and music theory. These classes lead students to become higher level musicians through creativity, practice, and performance of their musical skills. Historical and cultural works, as well as original compositions, are performed several times throughout the school year through concerts and collaborations with other classes. Musicians are encouraged to perform at festivals and competitions throughout the school year. Upper School students perform two curricular concerts each year, including a grand finale featuring musicians from each chosen discipline performing together.

The Upper School theatre and filmmaking curriculum focuses on creativity, higher-order thinking, and analysis. Whether it is through the study of character, script, design, or a lens, students work as both individuals and in groups to develop their skills through practice and pedagogy. Students are encouraged to take risks and empathize with other to tell a story. Three theatre productions are presented each year: a fall play, winter musical, and an evening of one-act plays in the spring. The one-acts are open to all Upper Schools students who wish to be on stage, and are written and performed by students.