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Saint John's School of the Arts (SOTA) is celebrating its 30th Year in North Central Pennsylvania.
According to a news release, it all began in September 1996, when a small group of dedicated musicians and artists gathered at Saint John's United Methodist in the Newberry neighborhood of Williamsport. They were there at the request of the Reverend Dr. Jeffery Seeley, whose vision of a fine and performing arts school would grow into the school of the arts we know today. In January of 2024, SOTA moved to the North Campus of First Church Williamsport, and began a mission partnership in the Vallamont Neighborhood on the corner of Bellmont and Market streets.
"For three decades, SOTA has impacted thousands of lives through its mission of providing excellent instruction in the fine and performing arts, guided by the love of Christ," the news release said. "We are so very appreciative of our connections with mission partners, donors, families, faculty, and friends that continue to sustain our daily operations. But most importantly, we see the impact in our students as they grow through their art - knowing they are part of a community that loves them. If you've ever wanted to learn to play or improve your skills in Violin, Viola, Bass, Guitar, Bass Guitar, Piano, Voice, Woodwind instruments, Ballroom Dance, Ballet and Modern Dance - our excellent faculty is available to talk with you about getting started. Simply contact us at sotalessons@gmail.com."
The current director at SOTA, Todd Kendall, had this to say about the school: "Our values are on display as students leave their lessons and classes and interact with their home communities in and around Lycoming County:
• Christ-Centered Purpose
We believe the love of Christ is the foundation of all we do. Every lesson, performance, and interaction honors God by reflecting His grace and truth.
• Artistic Excellence and Creative Expression
We are committed to providing the highest quality training, empowering students to communicate beauty and meaning through their craft. Our programs emphasize mastery of technique, artistic growth, and authentic expression.
• Integrity and Discipline
Character matters as much as skill. We cultivate responsibility, respect, and resilience, helping students develop strong work ethics and disciplined habits that serve them in life and art.
• Community and Service
We foster an environment of support and collaboration. Through servant-hearted leadership, meaningful relationships, and intentional practices, we provide a safe community that uplifts others and shares the joy of the arts.
• Health and Wellness
We recognize that thriving in the fine and performing arts requires physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our programs encourage healthy habits, balance, and self-care to support sustainable artistic development and lifelong creativity.
• Beauty and Joy
We cultivate beauty and experience joy as we learn, create and share. Our processes and our art reflect the realities of life in a broken world, as well as the true, sustaining hope we have in God's promises."
"Our students look forward to performances at our recital hall located at 1157 Market Street, as well as other locations throughout the year including at the annual Nutcracker Ballet performance at the Journey Bank Community Arts Center on December 5 & 6," Kendall continued, according to the news release. "Tickets are on sale now at the box office: caclive.com or by calling 570-326-2424."
More information about Saint John's School of the Arts can be found on their web site: sjsota.org