The Eastern Illinois University Concert Choir will be helping Carl Sandburg School students experience the performing arts Tuesday afternoon.

As April approaches, so does Carl Sandburg’s annual highlight of the arts.

Lisa O’Dell is the music teacher at Carl Sandburg and says this time of year is when the school’s first, second and third graders get the chance to experience a variety of different arts.

“I try to provide as many experiences in the arts as possible for the children,” O’Dell said.

O’Dell called Richard Rossi, director of choral activities at Eastern, and asked if the Concert Choir could come and perform for the students.

O’Dell said the Concert Choir is touring many schools in Illinois and is glad to make Carl Sandburg one of their stops.

The choir will put on a 30-minute concert for the children.

O’Dell teaches music to every one of the 570 students who attend Carl Sandburg. She said music is a very basic, yet necessary part of a child’s growth and development and watching people perform helps them learn important skills.

“The kids are very excited for the choir to come,” O’Dell said.

Last week, the sixth graders from Jefferson Elementary’s band came and played for the children, O’Dell said.

“I hope that the music will motivate the students,” O’Dell said. “And the more experiences they get, the better.”

The Eastern Concert Choir will perform at 1:15 p.m. Tuesday at Carl Sandburg School.