Ewen-Trout Creek presents Evening of the Arts

By P.J. GLISSON

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Ewen - The Ewen-Trout Creek School offered its Evening of the Arts on Wednesday and it was chock-full of melodic voices, jazzy instrumentation, delightful art and a whole lot of goodwill.

The event started with an art show that included multiple divider walls filled with hand-drawn or painted artistry, along with several tables with a variety of other items.

The hallway also included collages of historical characters compiled by younger students.

"My K-6 group 'visits' a country every month," said Nina Fiorucci, K-12 art teacher, of the kids' learning journey. She added that junior and senior high students engage in ceramics, photography, sculpture and digital art.

Ryder Pirkola, 9, was there with his grandpa. Troy Kastan of Ewen, also played art show bingo for added fun.

Ava Negro, 12, graciously showed the watermelon painting that was one of her contributions to the event.

Following the art show was a concert in the room normally used as a cafeteria.

"This will be the first time we've been on the stage in three years," said Brad Besonen, K-12 band and vocal teacher. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the concert was cancelled in 2020 and was held in the more spacious school gym in 2021.

Besonen announced that the Fifth Grade Band would begin the show by playing six short songs from their method book. The nicely executed tunes even included Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" and "Hard Rock Blues."

"They are super skilled," said Besonen of the young students. "This group improved probably more than any group I've ever had in my 22 years here."

Parapro Sandy Maki then helped several elementary students to draw winners for themed raffle baskets. She said proceeds will benefit the Community Youth Enrichment Team, the National Honor Society and the Teen Asset Group.

Afterward, the Grade 6-12 Band played four engaging songs, including "Cowboy Symphony," "The Mountain," "Motown Revue" and "Trumphant Spirit."

Among special treats was a solo performance by pianist Jamis Scott. Singer Jameson Carey also performed soulfully with keyboardist Christian Besonen. In addition, Cloe Maddox was the featured singer during the song "Jolene" by the Grade 6-12 Choir.

The choir also sang several other songs, including a heartfelt version of "Amazing Grace."

Overall, performers were showered with numerous cheers and whistles, along with clapping, throughout the night.

Besonen also recognized four senior students amidst the musicians: Eric Abramson, Brendan Polkky, Anna-Bell West and Jameson Carey.

Proceeds from the night's Empty Bowl Fundraiser - based on sales of ceramic bowls made by students - will benefit the school's ceramics program.