MAAA | Programs | Prof. Development | Nebraska | NECAP | David City

With a population of just under 2,600, David City has a surprisingly active arts council that supports the visual as well as the performing arts.

Through the NECAP program, they established goals with Robert that intended to strengthen an existing coalition of local arts organizations and improve the visibility and support of the arts in Butler County. All residency activities were planned with this goal in mind.

Robert performed a formal concert at the Methodist church, three performances for students from kindergarten through high school, and he addressed the local Rotary Club.

The activities with the students proved to be especially effective. Robert worked specifically with the high school Spanish classes, talking about Spanish history and culture as it related to the guitar. The students had the chance to converse with Robert in Spanish about music in general and creative opportunities.

Arts Council administrator Anna Nolan emphasized how the NECAP residency activities were in line with their goals for working with the community. She stated, "Having artists share the love of what they do and teach about their art form is one of the purposes of our arts council programs."

Photos:

Top: Robert Bluestone signs autographs for local students after his concert in David City, April 2006.

Left: Robert Bluestone talks with teachers Bill Lentz and Lia Raabe during the assembly for Spanish students at David City High School, April 2006.