Mayor Ralph Becker and internationally known pianist Danny Wright will be on hand to celebrate the arts in education when fourth-grade violinists showcase their skills as on Friday, Feb. 17 at 10 a.m. at Bennion Elementary School (429 South 800 East).

Bennion Elementary, a top-performing Title I school, provides intensive performing arts opportunities for its students.

As an acclaimed performer, Wright established the Danny Wright Foundation of Music with plans to strengthen arts education in the public schools. Wright has sold over 6 million CDs and was twice named by Billboard Magazine as a Top-10 artist in his genre. New Age. He will share his philosophy about arts in education and accompany the Bennion Elementary students as they play their violins.

“Quality education is central to a successful City and community,” said Mayor Becker in a press release. “Arts education programs are an integral component of quality education, helping students develop in all aspects of their lives – intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially.”

Salt Lake City Education Partnership Coordinator Joanne Milner will also be on hand.

Tonight (Thursday), he will be at a reception at Grand America.

In 2011, Wright released "Soul 2 Soul" via White Lyte Music LLC (www.WhiteLyteMusic.com), his first album of all-original compositions in 11 years.