Symphony takes outreach effort into schools
The Butler County Symphony Orchestra this week is presenting an educational program for elementary students in four school districts.
“Tall Tales and Long Tails,” a program designed by Matthew Kraemer, music director and conductor, features 20 members of the orchestra as well as guest artist and narrator Lyric Beth Ackelson and includes lesson plans and curriculum for teachers.
The program is being presented through Friday in the Butler, Slippery Rock, Mars and Karns City school districts.
Kraemer explains, “Our program this season features a connection between English language arts and music. Authors and composers are both storytellers and make important choices in order to create their tale.
“To help explore some of these choices authors and composers make, the BCSO will perform a work which has introduced the instruments of the orchestra and delighted young listeners for generations: Sergei Prokofiev's 'Peter and the Wolf,'” Kraemer said.
“While listening to this masterpiece, students will help create word banks to describe the story that Prokofiev unfolds with both words and music,” he added.
The program features audience participation and incorporates educational resources.
“We have had positive community support for this project and have raised over $10,000,” said Joe Kecskemethy, president.
“The generosity of our business community and from individual donors will help educate and possibly inspire a new generation of musicians.
“Educational outreach is a pillar of our mission, vision and values,” Kecskemethy added.
