The goal of this initiative is to provide contact time with each grade level and a community artist.  

In February Nigerian native Aloja Airwele joined us for a week of fun, workshops, and exploration into the African culture.  His visit was sponsored by Target!

Students in third grade were paid a visit by 14 strings! A string ensemble from Cornell University in April.  Members of this ensemble brought instruments, maps, and a great deal of information about southeast Asia.

Allen Vizzutti will be visiting students in May 2012.  Vizzutti is a world famous trumpeter hailing from Washington State. He will be hosting clinics, listening to rehearsals, and talking with students about Jazz, improvisation, and the ins and outs of life as a musician. Elementary students will have the rare pleasure of hearing Vizzutti musically illustrate the children’s classic book “Ben’s Trumpet” by Rachel Isadora. This story tells of a young man’s dream to be a musician. Set in 1920’s New York City, Ben loves to hear the Zig Zag Club musicians play, filling the air with the sounds and rhythms of jazz. When he hears it, he plays along on a trumpet that no one else can see—except one man, who opens the door to his dream. Mr. Vizzutti will speak with students about following their dreams, the importance of a sound education, and the vital role the arts play in our lives.

Richie Stearns (banjo)  has been visiting with first graders throughout the spring working with them on Living Literature Showcases.  Stearns is an Ithaca music icon, playing with the Horseflies, Natalie Merchant, Bela Fleck, and others.  Richie's visits are sponsored by the Community Arts Partnership and Ithaca College.

Lute song duo Mignarda visited students in the month of March.  This dynamic duo brought the Renaissance to life through their enchanting and haunting music.  Students in pre-k through fifth grade gathered to hear their beautiful music and loved the experience.  Mignarda (Ron Andrico and Donna Stewart) live right here in Newfield!