By Darian Eswine

The baroque strings and symphonic orchestra put on the annual pops concert on Thursday, March 10. Director Doug Elmore led the orchestra with pieces such as “Gladiator” and “Star Wars.” However, the night was also noteworthy for Elmore’s speech to the audience on the value of arts education.

After the piece “Slavonic Dances,” all of the lights went out in the auditorium. Students exchanged unknowing glances, while whispers echoed in the audience. Elmore slowly walked on stage. Education was the reason for this dramatic scene. After so much talk about possible budget cuts affecting elementary art, P.E. and music, Elmore decided to make a statement about his views to the people who he thinks care the most.

“Of all the people that could care, I think the parents in that audience are the most compassionate about music. They are the parents of these talented musicians. They know how much effort it takes to raise a musician, and they care,” said Elmore.

During his speech, Elmore called out to the audience to send letters or emails to their state legislators to share their views on the matter. He has already received many emails from people who have voiced their opinions. Elmore wants to send a message to the legislature about how budget cuts are impacting students.

“I don’t blame the school corporation, but I think people in the state government are working from an anti-public school agenda. Not all of Indiana schools are failing, and blanket reforms are only going to end up hurting schools that are successful.”

Elmore ended his demonstration by explaining that the darkness and lack of music in the auditorium represented the future of musical education in Indiana if budget cuts continue. He ended with a statement earning him a standing ovation, followed by cheers and shouts from the audience:

“I am tired of hearing about failed public schools. I am not a failure, my colleagues are not failures, and these kids are definitely not failures.”

Members of the New Albany-Floyd County Board of School Trustees are scheduled to discuss proposed budget cuts that would affect elementary art, music, and P.E. at this Monday’s board meeting at 6 p.m. Click March 14 School Board Agenda to access the agenda for this Monday’s session.

Community members, parents, and students can contact all school board members via email through the New Albany-Floyd County School website.

They can also contact state representative Ed Clere and state senator Ron Grooms via email through the Indiana state government website; click on Legislative once accessing the site.