Global Music to Many: Lotus Blossoms 2017

Amazing teaching artists came to Indiana this spring for the Lotus Blossoms Educational Outreach Program. In 2017, artists representing China, Mexico, Iraq, Uganda, and North American/Celtic traditions shared their unique talents with schoolchildren across our region.  (Click for bios of 2017 Blossoms artists)  This year, Blossoms reached over 10,000 participants and brought the tally of impact up to 136,000+ students who have been inspired by Blossoms since its inception.

“I am such a supporter of Lotus Blossoms – the music and education are genuinely WORLD CLASS.” – Dr. Laura Hammack, Superintendent, Brown County School

Biggest Blossoms Bazaar Ever! 

Donors and sponsors covered the cost of transportation for ALL 4^th graders in Monroe County to attend the Lotus Blossoms World Bazaar! Lotus volunteers welcomed families from all walks of life for a free day of international crafts, foreign languages, global instruments, and more on family day.

“Students like to learn by doing and experiencing, and that’s exactly what they do at the bazaar.” – Teacher, Marlin Elementary

Practicing our Humanity

Beyond school engagements, artists performed at senior living centers, child care centers, hospitals, and organizations like Stone Belt that serve people with disabilities. Audiences were clearly moved and had the opportunity to engage in discussions with the artists.

At a performance at Meadowood, artist Rahim Alhaj said he plays music to make a difference. “If  I can reach a little child or an old man with my playing, I’ve succeeded. We need to practice our humanity, and music helps us do that.”

Thank you to all our supporters for bringing more curiosity about the world to our community.

Blossoms was bolstered by our generous sponsors who care so deeply about global art, youth, and our communities in South Central Indiana and beyond.

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More information about Lotus Blossoms   ♦  Teacher Resources   ♦   Donate now to support Lotus Blossoms

Download the Lotus Blossoms Report 2017 as a PDF

 (Photo by Kevin Atkins, 2017)