Imagine: It’s the end of the school day. The bell has just rung and students are pouring out of every door. As the mob thins, a group of students seem to be walking together as a group. One kid has a saxophone case in his hand; another has a gym bag and leg warmers. These kids aren’t heading home, but somewhere else, and they seem excited about it. As they turn a corner, they enter a brightly painted building with the word MARTS printed in graffiti across the top. Inside, there are children already there, working on various things under the watchful gaze of their instructors. In one corner, a group of students are working on a large clay statue. Along the back wall is a line of student practicing salsa steps to the tune of young guitarist and a young girl with maracas. Our saxophonist turns to the dancer and asks, “Are you working on your routine today? I can play for you.” The dancer shakes his head and replies, “Only for a little while today. I want to finish my painting first.”
MARTS now offers three classes for children to choose from each day. Class environments are not rigid, so students can hop from class to class to maximize their learning.
Music with Ms. Turcotte
This semester, students will be learning about the composition and history of famous Spanish styles music. A resident artist, Alejandro Rodriguez will be visiting twice weekly to teach students hands on in the tango styles. Styles will try traditional Spanish instruments, including the accordion and maracas. At the end of the year, student tango compositions will be played at our biannual student showcase.
Dance with Mr. Casella
Discover the tantalizing styles of the Spanish community! Join us are we practice steps from everything from salsa, to tango, to flamenco. Students will be creating their own choreography of traditional Spanish steps to go along with the huge gala MARTS is planning for the biannual student showcase!
Art with Ms. Gage
This semester, students will be experiment with traditional Spanish stucco wall art. Students will be discovering how to sew flamenco dresses for the biannual student showcase, as well as practicing their practical skills with building sets for the gala. We will also be learning about the history of Spanish religious artistic influences and working with oil paints made from real egg whites!
