Fredonia Schools Celebrate Student Talent During Spring Concert and Art Fair
By Lumen Cristy Ihong

On April 13, 2026, at six o’clock in the evening, the Fredonia Schools campus came alive with music, creativity, and community spirit during the annual Spring Concert and Art Fair. Families, friends, staff, and community members gathered together to celebrate the incredible talents of
students from preschool through 11th grade in an evening filled with memorable performances and inspiring artwork.

Under the direction of music teacher Mrs. Aldrich, students spent months preparing during their music classes to bring the performances to life. The concert became possible through the collaborative efforts of many dedicated educators and volunteers, including Geoffrey Canaan, lead teacher of the school’s student band Doubtful Joy, composed of several talented seventh graders, and Mr. Juvyl Ihong, who assisted preschool and kindergarten students in practicing for their performances.

The evening began with adorable performances from the preschool and kindergarten students, who delighted the audience with “Loose Tooth,” a fun rap song about teeth, and “Paw Paw Patch,” a traditional American folk song. Their energy and enthusiasm immediately filled the room with smiles and laughter.

The first and second grade classes followed with instrumental performances of “Mama Paquita” and “Old Brass Wagon” by the New England Dancing Masters. Students confidently showcased their developing musical skills and impressed the audience with their rhythm and teamwork.

Third and fourth grade students then performed the beloved classic “Country Roads” by John Denver, followed by “Touch the Sky,” a duet soprano recorder piece composed by David Gray. Their heartfelt performance highlighted both musical growth and stage confidence.

Students from fifth through seventh grade continued the evening with energetic performances of “Eye of the Tiger” using soprano recorders and “Wonder” performed on ukulele, also composed by David Gray. The students demonstrated dedication and hard work as they entertained the
audience with their musical talents.

In addition to the concert, the Art Fair transformed the evening into a celebration of creativity and imagination. Artwork created by students from preschool through 11th grade, along with pieces from teachers, staff, and community members, were proudly displayed throughout the
venue. Guests admired a wide variety of artistic styles, colorful paintings, drawings, and mixed media projects that reflected the unique talents of the artists.

Ms. Everhart proudly announced the winners of the 2026 Art Fair competition. Students were recognized for their outstanding creativity and artistic expression across all grade levels.  Primary Best of Show was awarded to Dantzel Finicum for the piece titled Animal Hiding.
Natalie Ashley earned Elementary Best of Show for Christmas Tree, while Omree Meng received Secondary Best of Show honors for the artwork Sweetview.

The Art Fair was made possible through the dedication and initiative of the school’s art teachers, including Ms. Everhart, Ms. Olsen, Mrs. Cole, Mrs. Aldrich, and Mr. Ihong, who all worked together in supporting and guiding students throughout the creative process.

The concert concluded with a powerful and exciting performance by Doubtful Joy, a student band composed of Nathan Ashley, Tren Allen, Aiyavee Shearer, Ashor Kilgot, Emberlyn Wilmarth, and Nashton Wright. Under the guidance of band leader Mr. Geoffrey Canaan, the
group performed “Undone (The Sweater Song)” by Weezer, bringing the evening to an energetic and unforgettable close. Their performance showcased the confidence, passion, and musical talent growing within Fredonia Schools, leaving the audience cheering and applauding as the
evening came to an end.

A special thank you was extended to the Art Fair judges, Shelley Wheeler Christensen, Ria Hoyt, and Matthew Stewart, for taking the time to carefully evaluate the impressive student artwork and select the winners.  The school would also like to recognize and commend the teachers, staff, and community members who shared their own artistic masterpieces during the event, including Shelley Wheeler Christensen, Ria Hoyt, Matthew Stewart, Delina Bowler, Hannah Webster, Jeanne Crookston, Manuela Biasotto, Shelby Hunt, Juvyl Ihong, Caitlyn Cole, Cory Olson, Gail
Everhart, and Amber Hoffman.

The Spring Concert and Art Fair once again demonstrated the strong partnership between Fredonia Schools and the community. Through music, art, and collaboration, students were given an opportunity to shine and express themselves in meaningful ways. The evening served
as a reminder that wonderful things happen when schools and communities come together in support of children and the arts.

Truly, the success of this event would not have been possible without the continued support, encouragement, and involvement of families, staff, and community members who helped make the night unforgettable.