December 23, 2024 – Piedmont Arts’ dedication to educational outreach took center stage this December, as the museum brought five enriching programs to local students, spreading holiday cheer and fostering creativity.
These initiatives reached more than 1,300 students across Martinsville and Henry County, offering opportunities for artistic expression, holiday traditions, and personal growth.
Brass 5's Musical Magic
The month kicked off on December 3 with a special performance by Brass 5, a local brass quintet, at Patrick Henry and Meadow View Elementary Schools.
The ensemble played a mix of Christmas classics, including a heartwarming rendition of The Night Before Christmas, which was paired with musical accompaniment.
Students were also treated to a festive sing-along, joining in on beloved holiday songs. In total, Brass 5 performed for nearly 900 students, helping bring the sounds of the season to six schools in Martinsville and Henry County.
“This is always a favorite program for students,” said Piedmont Arts Education Director, Sarah Jennings. “Not only do the children get to hear beautiful music, but they’re also part of the performance. The holiday spirit really shines through!”
Preschoolers Spread Holiday Cheer
Also on December 3, young students from Happy Feet Early Learning and Child Center in Martinsville took part in a festive day at Piedmont Arts.
With the help of Mr. and Mrs. Claus — played by local community members Gale and Christy Buck — the preschoolers decorated the museum’s Christmas tree. The event also included holiday cookies, hot chocolate, and a chance for the children to interact with Santa Claus himself.
“It’s always a joy to see the children’s excitement and wonder as they help decorate the tree,” said Gale Buck, who has volunteered as Santa for the event for several years. “It’s a magical time for everyone involved.”
Poetry Workshops with Roscoe Burnems
From December 9 to 12, Piedmont Arts continued its educational outreach with a series of poetry workshops led by Roscoe Burnems, the first poet laureate of Richmond, Virginia.
Burnems visited seventh and ninth-grade students in Martinsville City Public Schools, teaching them about the structure and artistry of poetry while encouraging them to write pieces with deep personal meaning.
On December 12, students showcased their work at a poetry event at New College Institute.
“The students were inspired and eager to share their voices,” said Burnems. “It was truly rewarding to witness them embrace poetry as a powerful form of self-expression.”
Holiday Stories and Songs for Preschoolers
On December 12, Piedmont Arts hosted another holiday-themed event at Preschool in the Galleries, where 170 local preschoolers were treated to Christmas stories told by Santa (played by Gale Buck) and festive music from the Smith River Singers. The children sang along to holiday classics, creating a warm and joyous atmosphere.
“Events like this are wonderful because they create lifelong memories for children,” said Jennings. “We’re so thankful to be able to provide these opportunities for our community.”
A Special Trip to The Nutcracker
Piedmont Arts’ educational outreach extended beyond the classroom, offering fourth-grade students from Albert Harris, Axton, Carver, and Patrick Henry elementary schools the opportunity to see a live performance of The Nutcracker by Southwest Virginia Ballet in Roanoke, Virginia, on December 13.
More than 240 students attended the performance, an experience made possible through a partnership between Piedmont Arts and Southwest Virginia Ballet.
“This is an incredible opportunity for students to experience the magic of live theater,” said Teresa Hall, Program Manager at Piedmont Arts.
“For many of them, this is their first time seeing a professional ballet production, and it’s an experience they’ll remember for years to come.”
A Commitment to Free, Accessible Arts Education
Piedmont Arts is committed to offering free educational programs to local students and schools, ensuring that arts education remains accessible to all.
The museum’s outreach programs reach over 5,000 students annually, providing exposure to a wide range of artistic disciplines.
“The arts play a vital role in the development of young minds,” said Jennings. “Through these programs, we’re fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a love for the arts that can last a lifetime.”
To support these initiatives, Piedmont Arts encourages donations to the Kay Smith Education Fund, which helps fund its educational outreach efforts. To donate, visit PiedmontArts.org/secure/donate.cfm.