Much is already known about the benefits of arts education to student achievement in the arts and other subject areas, including self-esteem and respect for the expression of others. In addition, arts programs have a demonstrative track record for prompting positive behavioral changes in students. Positive student change may be measured by increased attendance and decreased disciplinary interactions such as truancy, suspensions, expulsions, or dropout rates.

— California Arts Council –

Bringing quality art education to youth is one of CPAA’s major goals. The following programs are designed to meet this goal:

1. In collaboration with YaoYong Dance, CPAA offers dance classes in San Jose and Belmont. Under the direction of Master Yong Yao, CPAA’s Artistic Director, the students study Chinese dance techniques towards professionalism. Students are encouraged to audition for parts in CPAA’s productions.
   
   
2. Arts Express — free performances to San Jose public school students at professional venues. Please contact Office of Cultural Affairs of San Jose at (408 ) 277~5144.
   
   
3. One-hour Chinese culture class to children in grade 3~12. Under the direction of one instructor and two artists, the class consists of 20 minutes of lecture and 4 short demonstrations: silk ribbon dance, fan dance, swordplay, and Chinese dance basic techniques; and 40 minutes of hands-on experience of silk ribbon and fan dances. Please ontact (408) 255-3774 to schedule classes.
   
   
4. Ensemble performances from 20 to 60 minutes at schools. 20 ft by 30 ft stage or performance space is recommended. Please call (408) 255-3774 to schedule a performance.
   
   

The program for item #3 above will be selections from the following sets:

I. Realm of Mystique

1. Flying Apsaras - Inspired by the Buddhist fairies on the murals of world-famous Dunhuang Grottos on the Silk Road, the dance depicts the fairies dancing to the heavenly music to bring blessings to people on earth.
   
2. Terra Cotta Warrior - The honorary title of the 8th Wonder of the World is bestowed upon over 3,000 Terra Cotta warriors buried in the Qin Tomb in Xian, constructed more than 2,300 years ago for the First Emperor of the Qin Dynasty. In this dance, a Terra Cotta warrior comes alive.
   

III. Land of Exotica
Folk dances and music from the following ethnic groups:

1. Mongolian - the people of the grassland
   
2. Dai - the people of water
   
3. Tibetan - the Himalayans
   
4. Yi - the people of fire
   
5. Wah - the most primitive tribe in China
   

II. Festival
Traditional dance and music of Han nationality

1. Celebration - men and women sing and dance in joy
   
   
2. Firework - dance of long red silk ribbons, an ancient art in modern presentation

For more information about this program, please email: cpaa@comcast.net.