Hebrew Day School launches music and art studio initiative
By Orit Aviran
Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor is seeking support for a dedicated Music & Art Studio designed to provide a permanent home for the artistic and musical expression of students from its Gan (kindergarten) through fifth grade.
The initiative comes on the heels of the school’s successful 50th anniversary celebrations and the completion of the Anna Schwalb Memorial Library. As enrollment reaches 70 students this year, the need for dedicated arts space has become increasingly apparent.
“Until now, our music and art classes have taken place wherever space was available, often under time constraints and logistical limitations,” explained Head of School, Rav Will Keller.
The momentum for a dedicated studio built throughout this past year. The school held its first-ever art fair, which drew enthusiastic crowds from across the community and showcased students’ remarkable creativity.
The school has a rich history of graduating students who pursue creative careers. Notable alumni include brothers Ari and Robert Axelrod, both of whom were recently honored as Distinguished Alumni at the school’s 50th anniversary gala.
The new studio will serve multiple functions within the school’s dual curriculum approach. Beyond housing weekly music and art classes, it will provide a rehearsal space for the school’s vibrant student Klezmer band and enable expanded programming that integrates creative expression with Jewish learning.
“This studio will elevate our already strong arts programming and position Hebrew Day School as a leader in comprehensive educational excellence across all disciplines — academic, communal, and cultural,” noted Keller.
The studio project builds on Hebrew Day School’s long-standing commitment to comprehensive education that prepares students academically while fostering strong Jewish identity and creative expression.
The school is seeking support to fund a renovation to create proper acoustics and storage, essential infrastructure including utilities for art activities, and the acquisition of quality instruments and supplies designed for years of student use. Additionally, programming support will enhance curriculum offerings and bring guest artists to campus.
Community members looking to support the initiative have several options, with naming opportunities available for those seeking to honor a loved one in a lasting way.
For those interested in supporting the Music & Art Studio initiative, contact Development Director, Tamar Jacobson, at [email protected] or visit hdsaa.org for more information about Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor.
