Musical, visual and performing arts are thriving at all levels in Liberty.

“Beyond being a creative outlet, the arts are vital to a well-rounded education,” Middle School Principal Heather Cheh said. “Numerous studies have linked strong arts programs to better academic outcomes for students.”

For seven years in a row, Liberty has been named one of the Best Communities for Music Education, highlighting the array of musical opportunities for students, from starting musical instrument lessons in fourth grade to honors ensembles at the high school level. Each year, the students’ musical talents are highlighted during winter and spring concerts, as well as special events including the annual Jazz Festival, parades and the Liberty Music and Community Festival. This year, Liberty was honored to host the annual All-County Music Festival.

Liberty student visual artists showcase their work annually at the PK-12 countywide art show and districtwide show. And high schoolers’ literary works, including poetry, creative work and literary arts, are highlighted in the annual Allusions magazine and during the Allusions Cafe. This year, high school student photographers earned a record-breaking number of awards (65 total) during the Mid-Hudson Regional Scholastic competition.

The district is also seeing more student thespians, starting at a younger age. A few years ago, Liberty High School’s Liberty Performing Arts (LPA) invited middle and elementary students to participate in their shows, which helped spark the formation of drama clubs at each of those buildings last year. Now the Liberty community can enjoy shows four times each year, with musicals by the elementary and middle school clubs and two shows per year by LPA.