Where Tradition Meets Innovation | Building Tomorrow's Artists
Nestled in a community rich with artistic heritage, Muskegon High School's Fine and Performing Arts programs continue a legacy of creative excellence that spans over a century. Our comprehensive arts education prepares students for collegiate success while fostering lifelong appreciation for the creative arts.
MUSIC PROGRAMS
Our renowned music program, established in 1911, includes various concert ensembles and the legendary Big Red Marching Band. With a history of national recognition and innovative leadership, our instrumental ensembles have performed for presidents, competed at national festivals, and pioneered music education techniques adopted nationwide.
The Muskegon High School Band Program has maintained a tradition of national excellence alongside pioneering innovation since 1911. Founded under Arthur H. Robertson, our program achieved unprecedented prominence during the legendary tenure of William Stewart Jr. (1936-1960), who established revolutionary concepts including the first high school band parents association and patented performance lighting systems that influenced programs nationwide. The program's distinguished history includes being rated as one of the four highest bands in the U.S. (1950), winning the national championship at the American Music Festival in Nashville (1980), and performing for President Truman. Current ensembles include Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony, the Big Red Marching Band with color guard, and multiple jazz groups, all continuing our tradition of community engagement through signature "Halftime Highlights" concerts, "Jazz on the Waterfront" performances, and regular concerts that have defined the program for over a century.
The Orchestra program, launched in 1912, achieved the historic distinction of being the first orchestra to perform at the prestigious Mid-West National Band Clinic in 1952. Our string ensembles offer multiple levels from beginning through advanced symphony orchestra, with chamber music opportunities for dedicated musicians.
Our choir program provides students with comprehensive vocal training through multiple ensemble levels. Students develop proper technique, sight-reading skills, and performance artistry while exploring diverse repertoire from classical to contemporary works.
THEATRE ARTS
Students explore all aspects of theatrical production through our drama program, developing skills in acting, directing, technical theater, and stage management. Our program connects with the broader Muskegon theater community, including collaborations with Muskegon Civic Theatre, which has deep historical ties to our school, having performed productions at Muskegon High School's Central Campus auditorium About Muskegon Civic Theater | Our Story and Mission.
Performance opportunities range from intimate black box productions to full-scale musicals, providing students with comprehensive theater training that prepares them for college auditions and professional development.
VISUAL ARTS
Our visual arts program offers comprehensive studio instruction across multiple media and techniques. Students develop foundational skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media while building portfolios for college admission and scholarship opportunities.
The program benefits from proximity to the Muskegon Museum of Art, providing students with access to professional exhibitions, educational programs, and community art initiatives. Through partnerships with the Muskegon Area ISD arts services and community collaborations, students participate in diverse arts experiences that enrich their creative development.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Professional Partnerships - Students perform at premier venues including the historic Frauenthal Center, Muskegon's premier destination for vibrant entertainment, which has served the community since 1929 Muskegon Civic Theatre. These professional venue experiences provide students with real-world performance opportunities.
Cultural Engagement - Our programs actively engage with Muskegon's rich cultural landscape, participating in community events, festivals, and collaborative performances that strengthen the bond between school and community.
PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE
Whether students pursue careers in the arts or simply develop lifelong appreciation for creative expression, our Fine and Performing Arts programs provide:
- College preparatory training and portfolio development
- Scholarship preparation and audition coaching
- Leadership development through ensemble participation
- Critical thinking skills through artistic analysis and creation
- Collaborative skills through group performances and productions
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL
Our programs welcome students of all experience levels, from beginners discovering their artistic voice to advanced students preparing for conservatory training. Multiple ensemble levels, individualized instruction, and diverse course offerings ensure every student finds their place in the Big Red arts community.
