Arts & Culture
At St. Benedict’s Prep, the arts are central to the education of the whole person. Through visual and performing arts, students learn that creativity is both a discipline and a form of expression, one that invites multiple ways of thinking, feeling and problem-solving. Whether through music, visual design or theatre, students explore ideas and emotions that cannot always be captured by words or numbers alone.
Grounded in a long Benedictine tradition, the arts at Benedict’s foster collaboration, self-discovery and engagement with diverse cultures, histories and identities. Students are challenged to develop their talents, take creative risks and contribute meaningfully to a shared artistic community. In doing so, the arts help form thoughtful, expressive and well-rounded Benedict’s men and women.
Gallerani's Gallery
Drama Guild
The theatre program offers students an opportunity to discover and nurture their creativity, while developing their skills as theatre artists. As members of an ensemble, actors and technicians collaborate to give physical life to the play. Everyone is regarded as an artist. While long hours and demanding expectations characterize the work, the theatre also provides a refuge for those seeking a place to belong, as long as they are willing to give of themselves to the rehearsal process. Two major productions by the Drama Guild, as well as acting and technical theatre classes during First Term, and original, experimental work during Spring Phase, mean that it is possible for the dedicated student to participate in some aspect of theatrical production throughout the academic year. Plays produced range from Shakespeare to classics of the American stage, as well as contemporary pieces from around the world.
7 Guitars Fall 2025
Past Productions
Visual Arts
Visual Arts instruction at St. Benedict’s Prep is grounded in the belief that art is a language built on form and content. Form reflects the visual elements that shape how a work appears, while content conveys meaning, ideas and emotion. Students engage with art that ranges from personal expression to work rooted in cultural, social, historical or religious perspectives, learning to communicate thoughtfully through visual media.
At the core of the program is the belief that every student has artistic potential. The goal of each course is to help students discover where their strengths lie, whether in realistic drawing, design, color, clay or three-dimensional work. A wide range of materials, techniques and approaches allows students to develop confidence in their abilities while continuing to challenge themselves and build new skills.
Visual Arts is also understood as part of a larger cultural and academic conversation. Through interdisciplinary projects that span multiple departments, including all arts disciplines, students explore themes such as Asia, the Harlem Renaissance, climate change, the history of St. Benedict’s Prep and voting rights. These projects emphasize multiple perspectives and culminate in public exhibitions that share student work with classmates, families and the broader community. Partnerships with outside institutions, field experiences, visiting experts and a strong emphasis on reading and writing further support student learning and align with Middle States goals.
Student Art
Instrumental & Vocal Music
The goal of the Music Department is to provide students the opportunity to express themselves and their identity within the larger context of community and culture through disciplined study and practice in either vocal or instrumental music. The program is available at all levels including the Elementary Division, Middle Division, Prep Division, and Girls Division. Participation in the musical life of St. Benedict's Prep takes many forms including traditional recitals and concerts as well as performances at daily Convocation, Monk Fest, religious Days of Reflection, sports games, and outreach or fund-raising events both at school and in the broader community. Students are able to relate their music experiences to all facets of the arts through proven interdisciplinary pedagogical strategies. While some students most value the exposure they are given to a broad array of musical opportunities, dedicated students are also able to receive the support and training they need to go on to study music at a college level.
