Pirates and Pianos

As the school year comes to a close, our campus has been a kaleidoscope of colorful art, uplifting music, and other forms of creativity. From our youngest Early Grades learners to our Middle Grades students, everyone had a moment to shine during our recent Fine Arts Festivals and Celebrations of Learning.

 

 

Last Week, our 6th through 8th graders took us to the movies, playing and singing pieces from classic box office hits like Jurassic Park, Despicable Me, and Pirates of the Caribbean. All that was missing was the popcorn. The 6th Grade Band ended their set with a memorable performance of John Williams' masterpiece, the Jurassic Park theme, which they played so exceptionally, they had the audience looking over their shoulders to make sure there wasn't actually a dinosaur behind them. The 7th and 8th Grade Choir followed with a joyful and uplifting rendition of “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, from Despicable Me 2. All of Gru's most talented minions could not have done it better. Finally, the 7th and 8th Grade Band closed the show with a performance of the Pirates of the Caribbean theme, which transported the audience back to childhood, at least for those who were children when those movies were in theatres. This was arrrrrrguably one of the finest of the MG Fine Arts Festivals. 

 

 

In addition to the nostalgic musical experience, families and guests enjoyed a vibrant student art gallery that featured a variety of pieces, from paintings and pencil drawings to mixed media works, all of which highlighted the originality and effort of our Middle Grades students. The entire festival was a wonderful celebration of the hard work and talent of our student performers and artists, made possible by the dedication of our incredible Music and Art teachers, Mrs. Rebecca Lingenhoel, Ms. Laura Danneker, and Mr. Kyle McEachron. 

 

 

Later in the week, last week, our younger students, in Pre-First through Fifth Grade, had their turn in the spotlight during the Early Grades Fine Arts Festival. The gym was filled with the sounds of recorders, hand chimes, bucket drums, and even an oversized piano wall that students incorporated into their choreography. The fun and variety did not stop there. Students took us on a carriage ride through the lush green pastures and Jane Austen-esque essence of the English countryside as they performed an English Folk Dance. Third Graders wowed the crowd by showcasing creative rhythm routines using basketballs. 

 

 

Surrounding the performance area, the gym walls displayed a beautiful collection of student artwork that included colorful paintings, detailed pencil drawings, and imaginative collages. Each piece was a reflection of our students’ growth and their unique artistic voices. The event was a joyful and heartwarming display of learning and expression, and a testament to the creativity, guidance, and encouragement of our Early Grade music and Art teachers, Ms. Laura Danneker and Ms. Joan Brower, Ms. Andi Bos, and Ms. Rosie Phom. 

 

 

In addition to these performances, our school community gathered for the annual Celebration of Learning, a highlight of the year for students from P1 through 8th grade. Classrooms were filled with the buzz of conversation as students presented projects they had worked on throughout the year. From science experiments and writing portfolios to robotics demonstrations and interactive displays, the event was an opportunity for students to take pride in their accomplishments and share them with parents, teachers, and classmates. The day underscored the progress our students have made—not just academically, but also in their confidence, creativity, and ability to communicate what they’ve learned.

 

 

It has been a remarkable year of growth, discovery, and achievement. Thank you to our students, teachers, and families for creating such a supportive and inspiring community. We are proud of all that has been accomplished and are already looking forward to the adventures of the coming school year.