An abbreviated but action-packed January for RRPS Fine Arts

RIO RANCHO — January can be a tough month. The holidays are over. Family has gone home. The new year is here. And after that, we’ll officially be in the doldrums of holiday cheer.

Rio Rancho Public Schools has you covered, though.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• January is a short month for fine arts — and school in general. Kids are returning from winter break on Jan. 6, which obviously abbreviates the month. BUT there are four major events happening in this short January.

First, the Phoenix Philharmonic/Rio Rancho High School Wind Symphony will be playing a “Send-Off Concert” at Cleveland High School’s Concert Hall on Jan. 7.

“Send off for what?” you may ask.

These talented musicians are heading into Albuquerque for the NMMEA All-State choir/orchestra performance, being held at the University of New Mexico, Jan. 8-11. Events kick off at 9 a.m. with the “Guitar” portion of the program, and conclude with the “Mixed Choir,” who goes on stage at 3:45 p.m.

In addition to the RRHS choir and orchestras, the NMMEA group will include the Phoenix Philharmonic. Named after the mythical bird who is reborn from its own ashes after dying in a fiery blaze, the orchestra will be traveling from Rio Rancho Middle School.

After a short fine ar

• ts break mid-month, the NMMEA All-State festivities are back. This time it will be the jazz band heading out to perform.
• Note: See full rosters below.

Lastly, piggybacking on December’s art shows that were held in the art buildings at RRHS and CHS, January is presenting the Junior/Senior Art Show. The show will include the best artwork from Rio Rancho’s top high school students. It’s a chance to see the growth of an artist, to support the community and the arts, and to have a really fun time.

If you are interested, head to the Curriculum & Instruction Building during regular building hours from Jan. 30 to Feb. 19.

• Note: Jan. 7 is the date for return to classrooms. Jan. 6 is “a 50/50 synchronous/asynchronous instructional day for middle and high school students,” according to an RRPS news release from Dec. 13.

RRPS FINE ARTS CALENDAR

Jan. 7 — Phoenix Philharmonic/RRHS Wind Symphony Send-Off Concert, 6:30 p.m. @ CHS Concert Hall

Jan. 8-11 — NMMEA All-State, all day @ UNM

Jan. 24-26 — NMMEA All-State Jazz, all day @ UNM

Jan. 30 to Feb. 19 — HS Junior/Senior Art Show, open during regular building hours @ C&I Building Lobby