Welcome from the Chair of Fine Arts
At St. Anne’s, we believe that the arts are not just an enrichment—they are essential. As Chair of the Fine Arts Department, I am honored to help guide a program that invites every student, from Kindergarten through 8th grade, to explore the full range of their creativity through music, visual art, and the performing arts.
From the first time I walked onto the St. Anne’s campus, I felt a deep sense of belonging. That feeling—of being right where you’re meant to be—is something I hope every child experiences when they step into our art studio, music room, or onto the stage. The arts give students the opportunity to take creative risks, develop their own voice, and build confidence in ways that extend far beyond the classroom.
In the lower grades, students experiment with rhythm, color, movement, and storytelling—laying the groundwork for artistic literacy and joyful self-expression. As they grow, they begin to refine their techniques, collaborate across disciplines, and present their work to the wider community. Whether painting a canvas, learning to harmonize, or stepping into a character’s shoes, our students discover that the arts help them make sense of the world and of themselves.
My own journey in the arts has shown me that creativity fuels resilience, curiosity, and empathy. These are the very qualities we nurture in every child at St. Anne’s. I’m proud to be part of a school that celebrates imagination, values expression, and knows that the arts are for everyone.
We can’t wait to see what your child will create here.
Warmly,
Stephen Bertles
Music at St. Anne's
Engaging in music has a remarkable impact on students' development. As children explore melodies, rhythms, and lyrics, they tap into their creative potential and learn to express themselves through this universal language. Collaborating with peers, interpreting sheet music, and performing together foster critical problem-solving abilities and adaptability.
The middle school music program builds on both vocal and instrumental development. Students learn notation, how to sing on pitch, and how to play an instrument. Each student performs with an ensemble at one point during the year. Music performances are held during some of our middle school, and all-school assemblies. These performances provide a wonderful showcase for students to display their ability and progress. In years past, the middle school jazz band has performed at the Denver Metro State Jazz festival, and vocal ensembles have performed at various events around school and in the community.
Joan Gilbert: Kindergarten - 3rd Grade Music Teacher
Spencer Gregg: 4th - 8th Grade Music Teacher, Band
Visual Arts
Art classes allow students to create jewelry, clay figures, and elaborate plaster molds, along with opportunities to explore many other media. Engaging in visual arts enhances fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, as children manipulate various tools and materials. Furthermore, it stimulates critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, as students learn to express their ideas and emotions creatively. Visual arts education also fosters cognitive flexibility, enabling children to consider multiple perspectives and solutions.
Student artwork is visible from nearly any angle throughout the middle school building and the school in general. The work of two featured student artists is added to the permanent collection each year, and an annual school-wide Arts Fair displays each student’s work during a week-long celebration of the arts.
Jessica Cardenas: Kindergarten-3rd Grade Art Teacher
Rick Sigler: 4th - 8th Grade Art Teacher
Performing Arts
The performing arts at St. Anne's provides students with the opportunity to explore their creative potential across various facets of performing arts. Our objectives revolve around fostering growth and development as young actors, encouraging performance, and equipping them with the skills to critique, analyze, describe, and interpret works within the domain of theatre arts.
Starting from basic stage directions and simple acting exercises, we progressively build a framework that leads students toward presenting their work to the community. Additionally, students learn the importance of being on stage and how to be attentive and supportive audience members when their peers are performing.
Throughout the year, we produce three productions for students in grades 6-8, while those in grades 4-5 engage in ongoing preparation for a culminating production. In each instance, students are encouraged to embrace risk-taking and infuse creativity into their characters and movements. Productions involve script work and incorporate improvisation. Activities also encompass team-building exercises and trust-building. The stage serves as a safe space for students to step outside their comfort zones and explore new horizons.
Stephen Bertles: Theatre Arts Teacher Grade 4-8, Fine Arts Dept. Chair