At the annual Winter Concert on December 16, students preschool to fifth grade demonstrated creative self-expression through the arts. Students created visual art work such as paintings, drawings, wooden holiday houses, and moral hero bottle dolls. They sang songs from a variety of cultures and learned dances influenced by traditional and non-traditional cultures, set to an array of musical styles. Sign language and foreign languages were also a part of the program. Some individuals chose to recite poetry, or play an instrument to showcase their talents.
The show was a great success and we attribute that to our dance teachers, Saki and Isa, to our sign language and Spanish teachers, Jessica and Sara, and especially to our Winter Concert and Elementary Music Director Sarojani Rohan.
Sarojani was honored at this year’s concert with an audience tribute of lighted tea lamps representing their love and appreciation for her years of service to Mount Madonna School. She was given the gift of a white orchid and the faculty sang one of her original arrangements, blending chants from three spiritual traditions.
“We have all been inspired by Sarojani’s musical talent, her gift of teaching songs to children and her passion to unify people through music,” remarked Head of School Supriya McDonald. “In the darkest days of December, Sarojani brings the light of smiling song-filled children into our hearts.”
With full appreciation, the students then gathered for their traditional finale, cookies and celebration of the holidays.
Watch the 2016 Winter Concert videos by Mike Don Carlos*
*Note, this gallery is password protected. The password will be shared in the January 6 eNews.
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– By Jenni Leach, director of lower school
– Photos by Claire Azar
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Contact: Leigh Ann Clifton, director of marketing & communications,
Nestled among the redwoods on 355 acres, Mount Madonna School (MMS) is a community of learners dedicated to creative, intellectual, and ethical growth. MMS supports its students in becoming caring, self-aware, discerning and articulate individuals; and believe a fulfilling life includes personal accomplishments, meaningful relationships and service to society. The CAIS and WASC accredited program emphasizes academic excellence, creative self-expression and positive character development. Located on Summit Road between Gilroy and Watsonville.