Ordway to Host Concert Showcasing SPPS Students' Artistic Talents

More than 450 Saint Paul student artists, vocalists and instrumentalists will showcase their talents during the 24th annual Honors Concert on April 14 at Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. The annual showcase, presented by the Ordway and Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS), in partnership with the Minnesota Museum of American Art (MMAA), includes an instrumental and vocal concert, a performance by the Ramsey Drumming Ensemble and a projected slideshow of original student artwork. The evening will be emceed by artist, activist and SPPS alum, Tou Ger Xiong.

The Honors Concert will feature a performance by high school orchestra, band and choir students conducted by Dr. Emily Threinen (band), Jean R. Perrault (orchestra) and G. Phillip Shoultz, III (choir), and accompanied by Thomas Bartsch. The event will also include a K-8 student showcase prior to the concert.

The student art work will also be shown at the MMAA Project Space in the Pioneer Endicott Building during the Honors Art Exhibition, April 23-May 3. The exhibition is free and open to the public, and will feature selected paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures and other works submitted by SPPS students.

"It's a privilege for the Ordway to host this wonderful concert showcasing the immense talent in our schools. We're delighted to be able to partner with such wonderful organizations to celebrate the accomplishments of Saint Paul students and continue to inspire them to achieve their potential in the arts," said Patricia A. Mitchell, president and CEO of Ordway Center for the Performing Arts.

Over the course of its 24-year history, the annual Honors Concert has showcased the musical and artistic talents of more than 8,000 Saint Paul students through vocal and instrumental performances, spoken word poetry and visual art exhibitions. Students are selected to participate through auditions and art submissions.

"The annual Honors Concert is the highlight of the school year for many of our students," said Valeria Silva, superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools. "For many, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform onstage at one of the state's premier venues or have their art work shown in a professional gallery. The joy and confidence they gain from this experience is immeasurable."

General admission tickets to the Honors Concert are $5 and can be purchased by calling 651-224-4222..