Elgin ISD Fine Arts Newsletter

Dear Wildcats,

It’s time!! We are thrilled to announce that Elgin ISD’s stunning new Performing Arts Center officially opens this week—and we cannot wait to share it with all our Wildcat families and friends. This state-of-the-art facility represents a long-held dream for our fine arts community, and seeing it come to life has been nothing short of inspiring.

Our Tech Theatre crew has been hard at work, building sets and mastering the incredible new lighting, sound, and rigging systems. Meanwhile, our Visual Arts teachers have been curating an impressive gallery of student artwork, which will be proudly displayed throughout both levels of the lobby.

Students stepping onto the stage have shared that they feel “transported”—as though they’ve entered a whole new world of creativity and possibility. Now, as we prepare to open the doors, we are overjoyed to welcome the entire community to experience this extraordinary space.

The Performing Arts Center is more than a building—it is the fulfillment of a dream and the beginning of a new chapter for the Fine Arts in Elgin ISD. We hope you’ll join us in celebrating this milestone and supporting our talented Wildcats as they bring the stage to life.

With gratitude and excitement,

Alyson Keller

Director of Fine Arts & Advanced Academics

Elgin Independent School District

The EMS Dance Department had their first performance of the school year at the Halloween Pep Rally. They performed a spooky hip hop dance that was scary good!

Their next performance is coming up on November 19th where they will be performing a variety of dance styles including Jazz and Pom in the Dance Department Fall Showcase.

Join us for the very first performance at the new EISD Performing Arts Center!

EMS Dance Department Showcase

November 19th

6:30 p.m.

Performing Arts Center

Tickets are $5 at the door

It’s been a busy and exciting season for our EMS Varsity Mariachi students! They recently performed during A, B, and C lunches on the school stage, giving their fellow middle schoolers a taste of live mariachi music right in the cafeteria. The students brought great energy to each performance and really connected with their audience.

One of the biggest highlights was the Hispanic Heritage Pep Rally in the EMS gym. This was the first time our mariachi group performed for the entire school, and it was also the largest crowd they’ve ever played for. With students, staff, and parents filling the gym, there were close to 1,000 people in attendance. This was a huge moment for the varsity group!

Lately, we’ve been working on more challenging pieces like La Fuente and La Charreada. These songs push us musically, but the students are determined and making great progress.

We’ve also been invited to perform at the nursing home next to the school sometime between December 15th and 18th. We’re really looking forward to sharing our music with the residents and hope to add a few more songs to our set list before then!ary of program update 1

The Elgin Middle School Band’s 8th graders and Varsity band have just completed a season of performing at all the recent EMS pep rallies, along with joining the Elgin High School Wildcat Band at the middle school night football game on October 24th. It was an exciting night where 8th grade band members were able to experience a high school football game in preparation for the next school year, when they will be freshman.

Currently, the Elgin Middle School band members are preparing for their upcoming Band Winter Concert which will be held at the Elgin Middle School gym on December 9th at 6PM. They will be performing many of the familiar holiday selections that we recognize around Christmas time! There will be 3 performing ensembles that will each have three selections. All family and friends are encouraged to attend, and the event will be free to the pub

The EMS theatre department has been working so hard to bring you our Fall production, Game of Tiaras.

Hogeye Winners:

1st Place: Caraline Cadena

2nd Place: Abigail Ramirez

3rd Place: Mariana Mendoza

Honorable Mentions:

Anabelle Tovar

Matthew Costilla

Meyer's Shout Out Art:

Brittany Cabrera

Southside Shout Out Art:

Taylor Thames

In high school credit Art 1 with Ms. Core students are exploring color theory by experimenting with the three most widely known primary color combinations and color wheels. RYB, red, yellow, and blue; these are the primaries we have always been taught. Other color wheels include the primaries: cyan, magenta, yellow (CMY) and another set include: red, green, blue (RGB). They have approached learning about color combinations and properties in their artwork scientifically and through practice and discussion. They are also learning about how we see color, from the wavelengths to how our eyes and brains are part of the instantaneous process in seeing color.

Before diving into color theory, Ms. Core’s students provided the paper flowers, butterflies, and artwork to add color, respect, and love to the Elgin Middle ofrenda. They learned about Papel Ámate from the Otomi Indians in Puebla, Aztec Sun Stones, Oaxaca Hojalata tin art, Huichol textile arts, and Puerto Rican Vejigante masks during Hispanic Heritage month to prepare for the schoolwide ofrenda. Ms. Galvan’s classes added painted calaveras masks. On top of helping our school celebrate Dia de los Muertos we had a student compete in the local tshirt competition sponsored by Elgin Art Association. We even had a student walk in the local parade in her ballet folklorico attire with Ms. Core and Ms. Gallegos. As Ms. Core’s students gear up for the holidays they are on the lookout for more opportunities to support community and beautify their school while deepening their art skills and appreciation.

In Ms. Galvan's art classes, students created paper mache masks for Dia De Los Muertos. Students also learned about the artist Edvard Munch who is well known for his painting The Scream, and then practiced the stippling technique for creating a Scream piece of artwork. Students created a color theory project in which they demonstrated use of primary, secondary, neutral and monochromatic colors within certain areas of the drawing, and learned about the artist Henri Matisse and created floral cut outs in his style. They have learned about different types of textures and experimented with creating texture within their artwork.

In Mrs. Kirschner’s Art classes we have completed color theory and have moved on to the

Principles of Design. First we made cut out floral arrangements like Matisse did when he could

no longer paint. Then we made Russian Nesting Dolls for pattern practice. We explored radial

symmetry using snowflakes and now have started Renaissance themed self portraits to learn

about proportion and scale.

6th grade Theatre performed reader’s theatres Hispanic folktales for the 3rd Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration at EIS.

Students learned about Hispanic culture through understanding the roots of the stories. The practice of storytelling is the basis of theatre, and actors must work to make sure the audience understand the story.

This was the first performance by EIS Theatre students this year, with the next being the Winter Showcase December 9th in the EIS gym.

The EIS Choir did such an amazing job performing at the Hispanic Heritage Assembly. You can see their performance here!

6th grade art students have been hard at work learning all about painting! They have spent the last several weeks planning out their pieces, learning to mix different colors, and creating paintings in a series!

It’s been a colorful and creative season in the art room! Students have been busy exploring a variety of materials and artistic techniques while learning about some of the key Elements of Art, focusing on color and shape.

We became architects in art and designed mansions built from geometric shapes, learning how structure and creativity work hand-in-hand to form unique and imaginative compositions. Some artists decided they wanted to push their creativity and created three-dimensional houses or turned their mansions into something else, like ranches or pirate ships!

Our young artists created black cat drawings surrounded by fall leaves, using line and color to create contrast and mood. Through leaf rubbings, they discovered the beauty of organic shapes found in nature, experimenting with texture and layering to bring their work to life.

Next, students dove into the world of science-inspired art with their animal X-rays, using oil pastels to explore transparency, color blending, and the expressive possibilities of this vibrant medium.

Throughout these projects, we’ve emphasized material exploration, trying new tools, mixing media, and experimenting fearlessly. Most importantly, students are learning to embrace creativity, take risks, and find joy in the process of making art!

The new music program at Trinity Ranch has had a great start, as students have been working very hard and have been engaged in music everyday. We have been following our own school-created YAG which was created based on preparation for grade-level performances, the EISD YAG, as well as music TEKS for each grade level.

We had our very first music show at Trinity Ranch with 4th graders last month for Hispanic Heritage month and the students did an excellent job! Second grade had a Fall and Halloween themed show on October 31 that was very exciting!

Third grade had their music show with the theme of "world cultures" on Thursday, November 20th, and on Veteran’s Day, November 11th, the 4th/5th TRES choir group had a small program during their specials time outside on the TRES courtyard. As of this school year, we have started out 10 students participating in an after-school choir this school year.

We have recently begun the very first music memory UIL for all 2nd-5th graders at TRES (also my very first time doing music UIL), we have had a total of three meetings and students have listened to nearly half of the 16 songs at this point.

At Harvest Ridge Elementary we are fully embracing the fall vibes. Kinder created Frankensteins, bats, and learned primary and secondary colors when they created their painted apples.

1st grade’s masterpieces included stacked pumpkins with different facial expressions, terrified frakensteins, and they also practiced color theory when they created their green apples.

2nd grade artists' works included windows with silhouettes, animals holding fall objects, different perspective pictures of students enjoying the cooler weather.

3rd grade and 4th grade mastered the art of creepy or cute texture cakes. 3rd grade reinforced their knowledge of warm and cool colors by creating a sunset. 4th graders made beautiful vintage trucks in the fall.

5th grade super artists created exterior doors with a creepy surprise inside! Currently, they are working on one point perspective with different scenes such as a desert and beachy boardworks.

In October Neidig third graders had their Hispanic History Month Program! Everyone worked so hard, and were AMAZING!

Younger students have been practicing moving to the beat while creating silly dances to go along with them. They have also been learning about rhythms by echoing me, playing with rhythm sticks, and playing games related to ice cream, and pumpkins!

The older students have been learning the difference between major and minor sounding songs while learning different fall songs such as Pass The Pumpkin. We worked hard to create rhythms to go with songs in class, and perform the rhythms using mallet instruments such as Xylophones, Metallophones, Glockenspiels, Boomwackers, and more!

All of this fun is happening while we practice Safe, Respectful, Responsible, and Kind behaviors in class! We are building relationships and a community of excited learners here at Neidig!

All things FALL are happening in the Art room as we speak! Kindergarten first listened to the book Acorn Was a Little Wild, and learned about the artist David Bird, who makes Becorns. Now they are making their own little acorn people! They are so cute!

First grade is learning about fall colors, and how it looks in other parts of the country, not just here in Texas. They are learning to draw a simple leaf shape. And practicing their coloring skills. Second grade is in the process of making a stack of pumpkins drawing, while third grade is also doing different leaves for their project. Fourth grade is practicing their skills at drawing and coloring pumpkins with chalk pastels! It’s been pretty messy in the art room while they are working!! Fifth graders are not working on a fall project, but instead are working on making a close up of a dragon's eye. They are learning all about value and how to use different types of pencils to achieve a realistic

EES 3rd, 4th, and 5th Graders performed at the 2025 Annual Veteran’s Day Program on November 11th. We sang three songs; This Land Is Your Land (Woody Guthrie), America The Beautiful (K.L Bates), And Count On Me (B. Mars). Special Thanks to all the Parents, Specials, Administration, and Teachers for assisting with the program.

The last several weeks at EES have been a whirlwind and filled with holidays and fun events. Students learned about color theory, shapes, and collaboration. Grades 1st and 2nd worked together along with the Art teacher and Librarian to create The Dot themed bookmarks and mural.

All grades competed in Red Ribbon Week and Hogeye color competitions and several students had work displayed downtown. The talent was so overwhelming that Ms. Smith picked a few extra students and gave them a creativity award this year.

The art room and students have been honored to meet and learn from Camilla, a high school senior student learning about public education. Students were able to participate in community events with Ms. Smith included public art painting and Dia de los Muertos festivities and all grades created creepy carrots based on the story. We have also had fun exploring different mediums including fiber arts, mixed media crafting, watercolor paint, and more! We are excited for the next few weeks leading into winter break.

It’s nice to be back in the classroom after being away for a while. A big thanks to Ms. Bernstein for being such a great co-teacher! I know our kiddos here at BTW were in good hands with someone who has so much love and knowledge of music. I could tell that classroom was her happy place, and she’s welcome back any time!

Our 3rd and 4th grade students had an amazing combined concert on November 18. Although it took place the week after, the theme of the performance was Veteran’s Day where the students were encouraged to invite someone in their family who has served in the military. Our 5th graders are also practicing for their performance at the Holiday in the Park celebration in downtown Elgin on Friday, December 5th at 6:00pm. Come one, come all! Just after that event, our 2nd graders will be performing their holiday concert on Tuesday, December 9th at 5pm in the BTW gym.

In addition to preparing for performances, our Kinder and 1st Grade students are having fun learning how to keep a beat, match pitch and move appropriately to music. The kinder students are even getting to try instruments for the first time and doing great! Looking ahead after winter break, all 3rd grade classes will begin learning the recorder during their music specials time. Also, our 4th and 5th grade students will be invited to join our after-school Recorder Club after a brief review period in class. Here’s to lots more fun learning opportunities for our BTW scholars!

Our EHS Artists and teachers have created AMAZING pieces this Fall. Please click on this link to see the October EHS Visual Arts Newsletter and this link for November's!

EHS Theater Department would like to invite you to come see our Fall performance of “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens and adapted by Michael Wilson, December 5th, 6th, and 7th on our new stage in the Performing Arts Center!

Our cast and crew have been working all semester for this moment, and we would love to have you in the audience! We promise it will get you in the holiday spirit! Purchase tickets here!

Ms Brock and Mr. Wilson

We’re excited about so many things in the Elgin HS Choir & Musical Theatre Departments! Please see the attached newsletter to help us celebrate our wins, honor our amazing students, & get excited with us about upcoming events!

We’re extremely excited to be entering into Musical Season, as we ramp up preparations for our upcoming musical “Seussical, the Musical”, based on the works of Dr. Seuss. Shows will run January 23-25 in our BRAND NEW AUDITORIUM!!! You don’t want to miss this! Tickets to go on sale in December.

Follow our student run social media accounts for up to date information, so you won’t miss anything C.A.M.P-related!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095291364797

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehs.choir.musicaltheatre/

Tiktok: ehs.choir.musicaltheatre

We are pleased to congratulate the members of Elgin Percussion on their outstanding performance at the Lone Star Classic Drumline Competition. The ensemble delivered an exceptional showing, earning the award for Best Bass Drums and securing 6th place out of 12 performing groups in their division.

This achievement reflects the dedication, discipline, and commitment the students have demonstrated since July. Their hard work was clearly evident in their performance.

We extend special recognition to Camila, Jose, Zachary, Mya, Ramiro, Alex, and Santi for representing Elgin with excellence, professionalism, and pride.

We commend all participating students and Mr. Gonzales, Elgin ISD Percussion Director, for their efforts and accomplishments. Your success brings great honor to our program and our school community.

Congratulations to Elgin Percussion on this noteworthy achievemen

We proudly honored our band and guard seniors—students who have dedicated countless hours, endless rehearsals, and immeasurable heart to our program—on Friday, November 7th, during halftime of the Senior Night football game.

These remarkable seniors have led by example on the field, in the stands, and in the classroom. Their hard work, leadership, and passion have shaped the spirit and tradition of our band, and we could not be more proud of everything they have accomplished.

As each senior was recognized, we celebrated not only their musical and performance achievements, but also the memories they have created, the friendships they have formed, and the legacy they leave behind.

A special congratulations goes to Camila Ponce-Alexander, named the 2025 Band Sweetheart, and Jose Sanchez, chosen as the 2025 Band Beau. These honors are awarded to students who show true passion for our band, support others, and lead by example both on and off the field.

To our seniors: thank you for your commitment, your talent, and the positive impact you have made on this program. We wish you all the success and happiness in your journeys ahead. Remember—once a member of this band family, always a member.

2025 Wildcat Band and Guard Seniors

Madeline Bradford

Valarie Bradford

Amni Calenro

Mya Campuzano

Raelei “Coco” Davila

Daniel Hernandez

Camila Ponce-Alexander

Jaliyah Price

Jose Sanchez

Dagan Smith

Estrella Solorio

Ana Sustaita

David Tanguma

Sahana Ward

Legacy Williams

Brooke Wright