Music and Theater  

At a time when many school districts are cutting back their Arts programs, students at the Yocha Dehe Wintun Academy are continuing to receive the gift of the Performing Arts experience as a testament to the Tribe’s belief that music and education are a winning combination for academic and personal success. The California State Performing Arts Standards guide the foundation of study for all music and theater classes at Yocha Dehe Wintun Academy. Research has shown that students involved in the Arts consistently score higher academically and are better adjusted socially than students who are not.

At Yocha Dehe Wintun Academy, students each receive a 30-45 minute individual music lesson per week on an instrument of their choice. Music notation and music theory are elements of every individual and group lesson. Music also gives students the opportunity of re-enforcing their native Patwin language through rhythm, melody, and the singing of familiar children’s songs.

Students are also involved in two theater classes a week and two theatrical productions a year. All the elements of theater that include character development, memorized dialogue, taking stage direction, costume & make-up design, lighting, sound, set design and construction, are captured in producing a performance that highlights the talents and abilities of all students.