SILER CITY, N.C. — More than 60 Jordan-Matthews High School arts students will have an opportunity to experience world-class performances this spring thanks to a grant from the Galloway Ridge Chatham County Charitable Fund.
The contribution made to JMArts, the Jordan-Matthews Arts Foundation, funds two of the five events in this inaugural season of Pinnacle of the Arts, a series allowing Jordan-Matthews students to experience world-class arts regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.
All events — including outstanding seating locations, transportation and a meal — are offered to students entirely free of charge. Most also provide personal interaction with the performers, who answer questions and provide expert perspective illuminating the artistic work students are encountering.
The Galloway Ridge Chatham County Charitable Fund grant makes it possible for more than 30 Jordan-Matthews artists to attend the North Carolina Symphony’s upcoming performance of Beethoven Symphony No. 9, one of the world’s most renowned works of classical music. It also makes it possible for another group to attend the national Broadway tour of “Kimberly Akimbo,” winner of five 2023 Tony Awards including Best Musical.
“We are grateful for the continued support of our Galloway friends,” said JMArts President Rose Pate. “Providing ‘pinnacle’ arts experiences for our students at no cost to families is one of our most important projects.”
Pinnacle of the Arts began in September with an international tour stop in Chapel Hill by contemporary music icon Herbie Hancock. Two events will be offered in December: a daylong, behind-the-scenes look at the North Carolina Museum of Art and opening night of Carolina Ballet’s renowned production of “The Nutcracker.” Those also are offered free of charge with contributions from another community foundation and two longtime JMArts members.
Becky Spence, chair of the Galloway Ridge Chatham County Charitable Fund grant committee, said it is a privilege for her group to award a grant for Pinnacle of the Arts. “The five art experiences for 30 students will broaden their knowledge of the arts and enrich their lives for years to come. What a great educational opportunity,” she said. “We at Galloway Ridge are happy to be a part of this special experience.”
More information about JMArts — including Pinnacle of the Arts, JMArts Scholars and other events throughout the arts season — is available at JMArts.org.
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JMArts launched their new Pinnacle of the Arts series earlier this fall when a group of JMArtists heard jazz legend Herbie Hancock perform in Chapel Hill. (Photo by Rose Pate)
More than 60 Jordan-Matthews High School arts students will experience world-class art this spring thanks to a grant from the Galloway Ridge Chatham County Charitable Fund.