Middle school students at Norfolk Collegiate School grow and develop through their explorations of band, chorus, strings, and drama. As students explore the performing arts, they expand their knowledge about themselves and the world around them. Elective courses offered in the performing arts include the following courses:   Middle School Chorus/Drama is designed to explore the fundamentals of acting, reinforce basic musicianship skills in vocal production and provide an opportunity for creative self-expression through public performances both in the school and the community.   Middle School Beginning Band is a one-semester activity that meets two times a week during Choice Time. It is designed for students with little or no band instrument training. Beginning Band, along with private instruction, is designed to accelerate students to a skill level which will enable them to join the Middle School Band. The school is able to recommend private instructors.   Middle School Band offers a unique training and performing environment for young band students. The band is carefully trained in the basics of playing and reading music starting at a level of difficulty comfortable for the ensemble at the beginning of each year. The band performs at least three times each year at the fall, winter, and spring concerts. Additional performance venues in and out of school are considered depending on the readiness of the ensemble and the availability of the students.   Middle School String Ensemble is an option for students enrolled in either Middle School Band or Middle School Chorus. Students receive instruction in either band or chorus three days a week and instruction in strings two days a week. The String Ensemble class focuses on improving a student's skill with the violin, viola, cello or bass and the student's ability to play with a group. The String Ensemble performs publicly in and out of the school in various venues. Beginners, as well as advanced students, are welcome, and all levels are accommodated. Students are encouraged to take private lessons.