The GMB Arts in Education Spring Celebration
The GMB Arts in Education Spring Celebration
The Gerald M. Brookhart (GMB) Arts in Education Spring Celebration provides a non-competitive forum for students PreK-12th grade to showcase bands, choruses, choirs, performances, dance, jazz, and the visual arts in downtown Peoria, Illinois. It heightens the community's awareness that the arts are an important component of our young people's development.
The Spring Celebration is a harbinger of spring in Central Illinois. The Governor of Illinois, the Mayor of Peoria, and the Chairperson of the Peoria County Board proclaim the months of April and May: "GMB Arts in Education Spring Celebration Months." This unique project has become a testimonial to the shared commitment to the arts.
Students from 136 schools in seven counties across Central Illinois (Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Fulton, Marshall, Henry, and McLean) participate each year by performing, exhibiting, and demonstrating their talents in the Fine Arts and Applied Arts in downtown Peoria before audiences numbering in the thousands. It features numerous performances including band, orchestra, choir, drama, dance, and speech. In addition to the performances, there are art exhibits and demonstrations that feature painting, drawing, collage, ceramics, metal works, fiber arts, weaving, photography, woodworking, drafting, horticulture, agriculture, home economics, food, and clothing.
Thank you for another great year!
Our 40th year of the GMB Arts in Education Spring Celebration closed with Peace Plays in Peoria Day at the Caterpillar Visitors Center and The Peoria Riverfront on Friday, May 16, 2025! We would like to highlight and thank all those who made it happen!
First, thank you to Katrina Fitzpatrick and her talented group of directors , who organized a HUGE group of student musicians and artists and speakers to come together on Friday to spread positive and messages of peace across the plazas. Thank you to Meridith Popp and her art students for a truly inspiring and relevant Peace mural. Thank you Yolanda Wallace and Warith Muhammed for your words and performances to inspire Peace and integrity today. Thank you to the Community Foundation, who presented a donation and support the GMB!
Next, thank you to so many for all you have done to make this season come alive: The Peoria Riverfront Museum and the Caterpillar Museum for your hosting and unwavering support and Gerald M. Brookhart and Sally Weber for your creation of the Spring Celebration and continued vision and support. Thank you to Beth Crider, who is retiring as Regional Superintendent of Schools for her guidance and support of the GMB! Thank you Mary Jo Papich for you continued support of the GMB! Renee Mueller for all your organization and details keeping schedules updated, Danielle Lewis for incredible website and media support, Bill Keister and Rich Teegarden, our wonderful sound techs, and Cal Archibald and Joey Ulrich, for their set up support. The FOROE board for your support! Pleasant Valley School personnel for equipment transport repeatedly!
Our food vendors and supporters: Grill Em All, Gramma Nannas, Janes Sweet Addictions, Tonys on Wheels, Rubis Pizza, Swannees Pretzels, and Jacks on Adams. Please continue to support them, because they support these kids in many ways!
We also truly thank our sponsors and partners: Community Foundation, Caterpillar, Kidder Music, WTVP, The Peoria Art Guild, Discover Peoria, Rotary Club Peoria North, and the City and County of Peoria.
Additionally, so many other individuals who continue to support these students and the arts. We apologize in advance if we have left anyone off, but know you are truly appreciated!
Last: YOU.. the students, directors, administrators, teachers, parents, friends, and family who support these amazing students all year long in their artistic endeavors!
Thank you for another great season of the GMB!
Brought to You By
Thank you to all who generously support the GMB Arts in Education Spring Celebration!
We are always needing Day Sponsors. If you or your organization is interested in being a Day Sponsor, please contact Dave Poehls at dpoehls@peoriaroe.org.
