The University of Texas at Tyler School of Performing Arts has partnered with Caldwell Arts Academy to present a special evening showcasing the arts, Tuesday, November 18 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at the UT Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center.
“We are delighted to partner with the Tyler Independent School District and Caldwell Arts Academy for a great evening that showcases not only our fantastic UT Tyler student musicians and new music by a guest composer, but also talented middle school art students from Caldwell,” said Dr. Neil Gray, UT Tyler College of Arts and Sciences dean.
Themed “Connections,” the evening highlights Caldwell students’ artwork that will be presented at 7 p.m. in a special gallery showcase, followed by a concert featuring the UT Tyler Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble at 7:30 p.m.
“This collaboration between Caldwell Arts Academy and UT Tyler celebrates the power of connection—between music and art, between university and community, and between young artists discovering how their creativity can respond to and explain the world around them,” said Jennifer Vaughn, Caldwell Arts Academy middle school visual arts teacher and co-organizer.
To inspire the student artists, a group of UT Tyler musicians visited Caldwell to share musical selections from the upcoming concert.
“The music made me feel happy and calm, like a soothing breeze,” Caldwell eighth grader Zatzya Marvels said. “I could see the colors of what they were expressing –– moments of sadness and waves of warmth. It moved me to create artwork filled with bright, vibrant and joyful colors.”
UT Tyler director of bands Dr. Alexander Scott will conduct the concert. Selected music includes the world premiere performance of “Letters to Binka” by guest composer Peter Cohn, a music composition student at the University of Michigan –– Scott’s alma mater.
“We’re proud to present our fall concert this year in partnership with Caldwell Arts Academy and Tyler ISD,” said Scott. “I’m also excited to bring Peter on board for this special occasion. We hope everyone can join us for this free, one-night only event.”
Cohn will also visit the student artists on the day of the event to discuss the creation of his piece.