Have you ever dreamed of standing in the spotlight, playing music on a big stage, or singing with a group of friends? Whether you’re passionate about drama or just want to try something new, the performing arts opportunities at Lexington High School are a perfect way to express yourself, meet new people, and develop your talents. 

Oh—and don’t forget! Taking performing arts classes fulfill the eight art credit requirements you need to graduate, so they’re an excellent opportunity to do something you enjoy in school! 

Here’s a quick overview of the performing arts opportunities that freshmen can join: 

Drama: 

Jump straight into the LHS drama program through in-school elective classes like Public Speaking, Foundations of Drama, Technical Theater, or Playwriting and Directing. LHS also hosts annual plays and musicals where you can participate in the cast, tech and costumes crew, or even in the pit orchestra. LHS’s most recent musical Into the Woods was a big hit!

Band: 

At LHS, students interested in playing a band instrument have the opportunity to join or audition for one of three band ensembles. Symphonic Band is LHS’s entry-level band, while Concert Band and Wind Ensemble are at the honors level, and require auditions. In the past, these band ensembles have traveled nationally to places like Hawaii and Washington D.C. to compete and perform. 

Band students can also choose to participate in the LHS Parade Band, which performs at local events such as the Lexington Patriots Day celebrations—and is a great way to log 30+ community service hours (you need 40 to graduate LHS!). 

Orchestra: 

For those who love strings, LHS has three orchestra levels: Repertoire Orchestra (entry-level), Symphony Orchestra (honors level; audition required), and Chamber Orchestra (honors and highest level; auditions required). Like the band ensembles offered here, LHS orchestras have also celebrated many successes. Last year, the LHS Chamber Orchestra won first place at the National Orchestra Cup and won the Best Section Award for its viola section. 

Jazz:

LHS offers Jazz classes such as Intro to Jazz Performance and Advanced Jazz Improvisation and Performance. You have the opportunity to join Jazz Big Band or Jazz Ensemble, which rehearse after school for credit. 

Chorus: 

Some people are great with physical instruments. For others, their voice is the instrument. In that case, LHS offers several levels of in-school choral ensembles. Chorale is LHS’s entry-level ensemble, and students also have the option to audition for three honors level ensembles: Chamber Singers, Concert Choir, and the Madrigals (listed from least to most advanced).

Additionally, students can audition for the a cappella program, which includes multiple student-led groups that meet outside of school hours and perform at events like the annual A Cappella Jambouree. 

Music Electives: 

Outside of the drama program and performing ensembles, LHS also offers elective courses that dive deeper into the theory, history, and more technical side of music. You can join elective courses such as Music Theory, AP Music Theory, Roots of American Music, Piano, Composition and Arranging, Mixtape Anatomy, and Controversy and Social Music. 

Whether you are a future Broadway star, a passionate musician, or simply curious to try something new, there’s a place for you in the performing arts here at LHS!