I am pleased to announce the First Annual Young People's Multi-cultural Festival on Saturday, May 7th from 2 pm to 6 pm. The Suzuki School of Newton is presenting this event to recognize the many cultures that make up our community! Because our Suzuki pedagogy is largely based upon Western European classical music, this is an opportunity to explore and celebrate other genres and music traditions that bring a greater musical vocabulary to our students.

In our world where the internet is facilitating communication around the globe, we also want to recognize that our school, in the heart of Waban, is a welcoming place where we can bring all people together. Our mission is to teach a love of music and learning. Our vision is to nurture our students as future global leaders through beautiful music. This learning of other music is important to that part of our educational philosophy.

In the realization that we have all a responsibility to end systemic racism in our society, there is a call to action. As a school we have a responsibility to enable good behaviors and values. I am hoping we can showcase and appreciate the many beautiful cultures and music from around the world and have a lot of fun that we share with all our families.

The Multicultural Festival will feature Brazilian Drumming, Peruvian and African Dance, and an ensemble of our Suzuki faculty playing non-classical repertoire. Our art exhibit curated by the Newton Art Association features music themed works of art, and our Suzuki Preschool will present their annual art show "Great Art by Little Artists" featuring an array of artistic styles modeled after the great artists over the centuries. We are planning to have a tent that will feature Nigerian food, and we are hoping to get a food truck or two.

This event is free to all--please invite your friends and family to join us outdoors on the lawn (raindate is Sunday, May 8th from 2-6 pm). We are not holding classes that day so that people can arrange their schedules to attend this all afternoon event. Mark your calendars!!!