James C. Harper School of Performing Arts Executive Director Janet Bloom has stepped down from the school after four years at the helm.

Bloom resigned last month, and parents of students and donors to the program were notified by letter.

"I am looking to pursue other interests," Bloom said. "I have enjoyed working with everyone in the community and appreciate their support."

Bloom helped form the school in October 2005, and it opened its doors in January 2006.

Located on College Avenue in downtown Lenoir, the Harper School provides musical instruction for students of all ages. Programs include Suzuki instruction, music therapy and ensemble and performance groups, including the Harper Concert Band.

The school is named after longtime Lenoir High School band director Capt. James C. Harper and is guided by the LHS Foundation, a nonprofit organization.

Phyllis Huffstetler, president of the LHS Foundation, said Thursday she expects a search committee to be formed to find Bloom's replacement. She said Bloom's departure will not affect the programs currently being offered.

"We are continuing on and hope we will grow bigger and better in the future," Huffstetler said. "Janet laid the foundation for the school."

Bloom and the Harper School were a prominent feature of the City of Lenoir's successful All-America City presentation last year in Tampa. Fla.

Lenoir attorney Lucy McCarl, who served as president of the LHS foundation from 2005-2009 and vice president from 1999-2005, commended Bloom on her service.

"I think she did a phenomenal job starting up that school," McCarl said. "I think she brought a lot of talent in forming it and running it that will be sorely missed and hard to replace. I think she was well-loved by many of the students and teachers, and was a real inspiration to a lot of students."

Huffstetler said the school is gearing up for the Harper Concert Band's Christmas performance on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 3 p.m. at the Lenoir High School auditorium.