STUDENTS GRADUATE FROM ARTS PROGRAM.

Byline: Carol Rock Staff Writer

VALENCIA - Three Santa Clarita students were among 500 young artists honored as California Arts Scholars during graduation ceremonies Friday from InnerSpark, the California State Summer School of the Arts.

Melissa Larson, a pianist from Saugus High's Class of 2005 and percussionists Moses Eder, a senior at Saugus High, and Steven J. Robinson, a senior at Canyon High School, received professional training in their specialties during the four-week session held on the campus of California Institute of the Arts.

``Students come to us from seven disciplines: animation, creative writing, dance, film/video, music, theater and visual arts,'' program director Robert Jaffe said. ``They audition before a panel of judges and must get recommendations from two of their teachers to be considered. It's very competitive, but spaces are awarded on a strict meritocracy.''

Jaffe said students work with professionals in their field during intensive sessions. Now in its 19th year, the residential training program has graduated more than 9,500 students. Each student completing the program receives the Governor's Arts Scholar medallion, the highest distinction in the state for student artistic talent.

Carol Rock, [phone]

carol.rock(at)dailynews.com