Xaverian offers extensive programs for students to display their musical and artistic ability and creativity with students putting many hours into practicing their art and music, while balancing school work, clubs, and outside activities. For some, this is time-consuming and creates stress and pressure to perform at school and at home. Students feel like there’s so much to complete and work on and not enough time to do it. But others feel like having platforms to express themselves is a way to relieve that stress. So does balancing school work, clubs, outside activities, and practicing music and art affect students’ well-being positively or negatively?

According to a study by Yamaha Staff, 49% of students participate in music education, and 67% of students participate in art education. The study also shows that 98% of students have access to music education. Most studies surrounding the impact of music and art on academics are all positive. They state that music is engaging and improves memory and learning and that art and music improve language and reading skills. 

An ACRM study states, “Art enhances brain function by impacting brain wave patterns, emotions, and the nervous system.” Making and experiencing art benefits by raising serotonin levels as well.

Music has the ability to positively impact others as it can bring people together, create new friendships and connect people with their family, as it helps release stress and tension by allowing individuals to let go and get lost in their music.

“Growing up, I had a lot of music around me because my dad sings. That inspired me to learn instruments,” said Angelina Park ‘26. “I can improve my music skills to express myself and relieve stress and tension, and the community you build with other musicians is so special.” 

Xaverian recognizes these benefits, as do its students, with, according to music teacher, Mr. Robert Randazzo, over fifty percent of the student body participates in the music program in some way. And in recent years, the school has expanded its art program, adding new courses and electives. The program currently offers Theater Mechanics: Playwriting and Acting, Studio Art, Foundations of Drawing and Painting, Introduction to Digital Art, and Fashion Design. Xaverian’s Music program offers Bands, Orchestras, Chorus, Jazz Bands, Guitar Ensembles, Drum Lines, Rock Bands, Harp - Technique & Execution, and Music Theory.

Ms. Tozzi, a teacher in the Art Department, said she hopes to “inspire kids to express their artistic abilities and help them find something they can practice that they enjoy and could use in the future.” 

Students at Xaverian, on average, practice their art and instrumental skills up to two hours a day, which adds to their school workload and outside extracurriculars. Xaverian’s art and music curriculum are advanced and beneficial for other aspects of student life. They provide a positive learning and bonding environment. 

Director of Music, Mr. Loposky, states, “We hope music never affects students negatively and that it benefits them regarding their self-expression and socialism. If they ever are swamped with work, they can come to talk to us about it, and we’ll always be there to support and help them.”