The visual and performing arts provide a variety of experiences to students during their three years at James F. Doughty School. General music instruction, instrumental music and art education are offered to all students on a quarterly/trimester schedule. Co- curricular instruction in the performing arts, band, chorus and strings, is offered in the mornings before academic classes.

Students participating in the performing arts perform in school and community concerts, interscholastic music festivals as well as performing at other venues. Students also may extend their experiences by participating in jazz band, show choir, and the annual school musical.

In addition to visual art classroom instruction, students have an opportunity to develop their art skills and appreciation as a member of the after school art club and may candidate for identification as a gifted and talented art student. Student art pieces are exhibited in shows and exhibits in the Bangor community.