In-School programs for students of all ages are vital in the education process. Orchestras and classical musicians have a role to play at the education table. Using the basic tenant of development that we learn something new by comparing it to something we already know, integrating classical music into the world of a child is a logical first step into the world of classical music.
Actively listening to classical music has ramifications for how we listen in general and how young minds develop. Here are three key outcomes to attending live orchestra concerts.
1) Listening to and engaging with classical music requires connections be made between left brain and right brain thinking. Through hearing, analyzing, and assessing what we hear we require the brain to connect both sides of its capabilities. Connecting this activity develops better problem solvers and more creative thinkers.
2) The art of active listening is key to the learning process. Imagine a world where students are focused on what they hear and respond based on the information that is presented. Imagine a world in which relationships are developed based on really listening to each other.
3) Engaging with music opens up a child’s mind and world to that which might be possible. Hearing music from different ways of life breaks down borders and enlarges each child’s footprint.
Based on these guiding principles, Robert Franz has successfully created education programs he has shared with hundreds of thousands of students that present the greatest orchestral music ever written in a format that is engaging and valuable to audiences of all ages. Here are some sample program ideas.
Grades K- 3
Resolving Conflicts – exploration of how we work together as an ensemble
Calculating Music – the orchestra acts as a giant manipulative for students
Opposites Attract – comparing and contrasting live music
Grades 3-6
Musical Tour of America – Exploring the contours of music
Music in the Clouds – discern pitch levels with a focus on weather
Reading and Music – understanding Composer/author intent
Creating Stories and Music – compare creative process between composers and authors
Grades 6-12
Art as a Reflection of Society – explorations of music in context
Music with a conscience – composers speaking out against their environment
Music and the Holocaust - survey or pieces written during and about this great tragedy
Romeo and Juliet – music inspired by Shakespeare
Effects of the Industrial Revolution – changes in the orchestra from 1800 to today
Jefferson Era – The effect of the Age of Enlightenment with a focus on the music of Beethoven