Performance Santa Fe enriches lives of students

Performance Santa Fe recently held an enchanting gala event, in part to raise funds for its education programs. The gala was a stunning success, spreading the delight of musical arts to all its guests. An important feature of the event was a film that unveiled the workings of its support of music education for youth in Santa Fe.

As the director of music education for Santa Fe Public Schools, I’ve experienced firsthand the concern and care Performance Santa Fe holds for public school music education in this community. Its efforts provide funding and operational support for private lessons, visiting artists, in-school performances and master classes by world-class performers — all for Santa Fe Public Schools students who otherwise could not afford it. Prior to the installment of these efforts, Performance reached out to our department to learn what is needed to augment our existing core programming in band, choir, guitar, piano and orchestra. As opposed to providing us with an already fleshed-out service, Performance wanted to enhance our programs from the ground floor in ways that were needed.

Aspiring young musicians require private lessons to succeed on their instrument or voice. They need the expert attention of a seasoned professional musician, in small groups or privately, to help them develop the necessary skills to perform in an aesthetically pleasing manner. And, the experience of witnessing master-level musical performances helps students to define their own musical aspirations.

Music education programs in Santa Fe Public Schools are alive and well! Nearly 4,000 students in grades 4-12 elect to study music through core programming, and 100 percent of our elementary students, grades K-6, receive a rich music education. Our students benefit from the partnerships of several arts and civic organizations in this city in addition to Performance Santa Fe and, together as a community, we collaborate to address the musical needs of our youth.

Performance Santa Fe constantly nurtures and furthers its commitment to expose, help educate, provide enjoyment, impact and support our performing arts students. And it are positively affecting thousands of students.

Leanne DeVane is the music education coordinator for Santa Fe Public Schools and has lived in Santa Fe County for 20 years.