Head Start Arts Program

This program, established in 1981, is the only arts program developed for the children enrolled in Port Chester’s Head Start Program. Rotating groups of children arrive at The Rye Arts Center four times a week over twenty-six weeks and enjoy dance, music, mixed media, and clay classes. This year, twenty-nine special needs students will join the program. A scholarship for a week in our summer Creative Arts Program is given to one student from each class of eight classes who shows a sincere interest in the arts. Up to 160 children take part in a Moving Up Ceremony each spring where the students’ families, area dignitaries, and Rye Arts Center Board members celebrate the students’ accomplishments. Dell, Laurie and Rob Platek, Jane and Bill Pearson, WESTCOP, NYSCA, and Arts Westchester sponsor this program.

Suzuki Violin

This program was modeled after the East Harlem Violin program started by Roberta Guaspari-Tzavaras whose story was told in the movie Music of the Heart, starring Meryl Streep. The program was created to foster self-esteem and discipline through rigorous instruction on the violin. It is now in its thirteenth year and is conducted after school at the Carver Center in Port Chester. These Suzuki violin students have the opportunity to perform during and at year end recitals. Funded by David and Michele Florence, Christina Gerli, and the Carver Center.

Arts in the Afternoon

The fifth grade classes at the JFK Magnet School in Port Chester are offered lessons after school in art, theater, dance and music. These students are also given an opportunity to perform at school concerts and at The Rye Arts Center. This program is sponsored by the Port Chester School District.

Music for Seniors

This program was established for senior citizens at area nursing homes to enjoy live music and its therapeutic value. The musicians are Rye Arts Center students as well as those of area middle and high school students. This program fulfills many goals: self-esteem of the students performing, the entertainment for the seniors, and the interaction between students and seniors. This RAC program is a win/win and is organized through the RAC Music School Director and RAC students in conjunction with Rye High School student volunteers.

21st Century Satellite Program at Port Chester High School

This program is a federally funded program and was established as a partnership with the Port Chester School District to provide after school activities that provide academic enrichment for students “at risk”. It is now in its sixth year. Classes that have been offered include group music, digital photography, fashion illustration/accessories, drumming, cartooning, jazz/hip hop dance. Students have an opportunity to showcase their talents during a school presentation at the end of each semester. Individual music class scholarships are also provided. Classes are offered at the High School , Middle School and in 20010 will begin in the Elementary Schools. Sponsored by the Port Chester School District.

Reel Thrills

This project started as an RAC general class program but quickly was offered for outreach due to its multi disciplinary value to students. The project is to make a film. It is held at the Carver Center and offers an opportunity for team work. Students learn to formulate and combine their ideas, write a script, act, direct and produce a 10 minute film in one week. This program currently awaits new funding.

Hispanic Resource Center

This program was developed to foster participation among immigrant families in the Town of Mamaroneck. This hardworking group lacks little time for family interaction. By working together through an arts project that also celebrates their family’s origin, we hope it will bond children and parents allowing them to share in their cultural identity as well. This program is sponsored by Sherry and Robert Wiener.