Grades 7-12
Social Studies
Arts Appreciation
Marian MacDowell, creator of the MacDowell Colony, has been identified as a "significant figure in American cultural history." She invited her first colonist to Peterborough in 1907, and lived to 1956, when she died at age 98. She had vision and purpose and was a tireless worker, fundraiser and builder for the Colony. Unlike most other late 19th Century colonies which were developed around a charismatic figure, the MacDowell Colony with its rules and routines was the result of a specific plan carried out by Marian and a New York-based board of directors. They developed a colony to provide artists with tranquility and fellowship regardless of social status or income. Artists are chosen with consideration of talent and seriousness of purpose. A common question is: "Who is at MacDowell now who is famous?" and the reply is "We don't know... yet."
Students viewing the History of the Colony episode will recognize the effort it takes to build something worthwhile and lasting through the qualities demonstrated by Marian MacDowell and the support that she gained through the community of Peterborough.
Hold a class discussion or have students write an essay on the pros and cons of "affiliation of the arts." Ask students to do a reflective writing on a task they think is "worthwhile and lasting," and to which they could consider dedicating a lifetime, even if it means "doing without."
Ancient Babylon comes to life in this production of Verdi's early masterpiece.
Jerry Seinfeld discusses his collaboration with Larry David and the evolution of the sitcom.
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
David Bacharach creates "The Mounds," a land art installation confronting climate change.
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
Audra McDonald performs "Will He Like Me?" from "She Loves Me."
Find your front row seat at home for four nights of acclaimed theater productions.
Ato Blankson-Wood (Hamlet) and Lorraine Toussaint (Gertrude) in The Public Theater's "Haml
Solea Pfeiffer performs Ophelia's flower monologue from Hamlet Act IV Scene 5.
Ato Blankson-Wood performs "To be, or not to be" at the Delacorte Theater.
Comedian Susie Essman talks about the unique traits of "Curb Your Enthusiasm."
Follow host Scott Yoo's journey to compose a piece of music for the first time.
George Gagnidze and Liudmyla Monastyrska perform "Oh, di qual'onta aggravasi."
Explore the work of two legendary virtuosos, Niccolò Paganini and Robert Johnson.
Actor John Lithgow goes back to school to celebrate the power of arts education.
Visit Julliard Pre-College with Scott Yoo to play with some of tomorrow's virtuosos.
Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
Explore how virtuosos become maestros, featuring Yo-Yo Ma, Lynn Chang and more.
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
Watch the first ten minutes of The Incomparable Mr. Buckley in this sneak preview.
Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
Koto player Yumi Kurosawa performs her piece "Lucky Stars."
Scott Yoo meets with composer Augusta Read Thomas to get out of a creative rut.
Visit Juilliard Pre-College with Scott Yoo to play with some of tomorrow's virtuosos.
Scott Yoo meets with a descendent of Paganini to discuss the virtuoso's life.
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
Go behind the scenes of Cirque du Soleil with music director Aaron Guidry.
Yo-Yo Ma, Dr. Richard Kogan and Lynn Chang discuss their 50 years of friendship.
Actor John Lithgow goes back to school to celebrate the power of arts education.
Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
Violinist Chloe Chua takes Scott Yoo through the Ling Ling Violin Workout.
Nine-year-old pianist Wilson Liu performs Prokofiev's Prelude Op. 12, No. 7.
William F. Buckley, Jr. ran for mayor of New York City under the Conservative Party.
William F. Buckley, Jr. and his wife Patricia had a brazen, but loving relationship.
Yale administration feared Buckley's outspoken criticism of the university.
John Lithgow joins a Self-Help Graphics student for a screen print with a message.
The Debbie Allen Dance Academy immerses John Lithgow in new rhythms and movements.
Pat Bass and her vocal jazz class help John Lithgow embrace new artistic challenges.
A Japanese American rapper discovers how art can champion cultural liberation.
A diva returns to South America to perform at Manaus?and to search for her lost lover.
In 1965, Daniel Patrick Moynihan released the controversial "Moynihan Report."
Against advice, Daniel Patrick Moynihan took a job as Richard Nixon's domestic advisor.
Daniel Patrick Moynihan's book transformed how ethnicity was viewed in America.