Slideshow: Celebrating the Arts at Murray Avenue School

Murray Avenue School's front lawn was recently commandeered by an expert baton twirler, a cello soloist, and a Karate ace—all of whom are elementary school students.

Wednesday night marked Murray Avenue School's Art Festival, a celebration that showcases students' art, music, and talents. The event began on the school's front lawn, where families sprawl out for picnic dinners. Students take advantage of the audience to showcase their abilities.

Danny Elkin, a nine-year-old fourth grade student at Murray Avenue School, put on a Karate demonstration for his classmates and their parents. Elkin has been studying martial arts for two years. 

"I'm super excited to be here," Elkin said. 

The event is an annual occurrence—and often a summer highlight for members of the Murray Avenue School community.

"We've come in the past, and look forward to it," said Stephen Paul, a Mamaroneck resident and father of a Murray Avenue student. "Each year, the front lawn is usually filled with families."

Parents are encouraged to share their fortes as well. Tables set up along the school's front entrance featured parents' paintings and sketches.

"A major part of the fair is parents who make art and share it with the students," said Jenny Lee, the parent of a student. Lee's table allowed students to watch her paint pictures of the Mamaroneck harbor.

"It shows students how art is an important part of life," Lee added.

Two of the school's kindergarten teachers —Patricia Schwartz and Linda Finn—operated a booth aimed at raising money for Kids For World Health (KFWH), an organization that fights diseases in impoverished countries.

"We sell hats and t-shirts, and let the kids decorate them," Finn explained. "The organization was founded in Larchmont."

Following the picnic and initial performances, families migrated inside to view art exhibits. Students' work ranged from ceramics to paintings to sculptures.

The night culminated with a chorus and band concert, held in the school's auditorium. Denise Ruchala, music teacher at Murray Avenue, conducted the student band through several numbers—and in between each, students took center stage to discuss their instruments and the pieces performed.

The event also honored students who participate in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA), an organization that fosters and promotes musical education.

The fifth grade chorus, conducted by Murray Avenue teacher Joe Brady, closed the event. Students selected popular pop song "Party in the U.S.A." by Miley Cyrus as their final number, performing the song with assorted patriotic and wacky attire.