MORGANTON
Surrounded by a group of artistically talented peers on Thursday morning, Sarah B. proudly sang, "Nothing you could do could make me be untrue to my guy."
Sarah takes part in Studio XI, a day program offered by The Enola Group, a nonprofit organization that provides residential and day services to people with developmental disabilities.
Studio XI in Morganton provides an environment for the promotion and development of musical and artistic talents. On Thursday mornings, the studio has open-mike time for its participants, who practice all week with the music therapist, Sherrill Keever.
Bouncing along with the music, Neil P. gave a rousing rendition of "Susie Q" while audience members danced and sang along.
Much like karaoke, the words on the screen lit up in time with the music, but Neil didn't seem to have any trouble remembering the words as he swung his head from side to side with the tempo.
Neil said that his favorite artist is James Taylor, and he enjoys singing along with the radio when he can.
The session began to draw to a close as Patrick M. performed "Boots and Saddles," a duet, on the keyboard with Keever.
"I'm so happy to be in this place with all my friends surrounding me," Patrick told the group.
Patrick, who practices every day on the keyboard, said he enjoys performing music that involves calliope.
Music is not the only artistic talent encouraged at Studio XI; art takes shape through other such media as painting, jewelry and pottery, as well as movement and drama.
Fredda Monroe, the new CEO of the Enola Group, said that some of the artists at Studio XI have had their paintings featured internationally, and one participant currently has an art exhibit in Hickory.
An open house is planned for June to showcase the pieces produced by the participants.
■ Julie N. Chang is a staff writer for The News Herald in Morganton.
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