Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT ARE THEY? Children's Concerts are curriculum-based, Orchestra concerts that serve nearly 10,000 Manatee and Sarasota County schoolchildren on an annual basis.
WHO MAY ATTEND? Though these concerts are designed for fourth- and fifth-grade students, other grades may attend, based on ticket availability. These concerts are perfect for students being introduced to music and musically involved students. Homeschool organizations and private schools are welcome to attend.
WHEN AND WHERE ARE THE PERFORMANCES? April 28, 29, 30, 2009 at 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. in the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall; May 1, 2009 at 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. in the North Port Performing Arts Center.
HOW MUCH ARE TICKETS? Thanks to our generous sponsors, tickets are just $5 each.
HOW DO I PURCHASE TICKETS? Fourth- and fifth-grade students in Sarasota County Public Schools reserve their seats through curriculum specialist, Cindy Balistreri, member of the Sarasota County School Board.
Fourth- and fifth-grade students in Manatee County Public Schools reserve their seats through curriculum specialist, Sherry Lawrence, member of the Manatee County School Board.
Private schools, homeschool teachers, orchestra and band directors, or other interested public-school groups should contact the Sarasota Orchestra Education Department at (941) 487-2731 to make arrangements.
WHAT WILL BE PLAYED? The program consists of a wide variety of musical styles that are written for a symphonic orchestra, and diverse enough to spark the wonder of music to its young concert- goers. The selections range in music from the 1700s through modern film scores, following a yearly concert theme that may be integrated into standard curriculum by teachers. Selections also highlight specific musical instruments and demonstrate a wide variety of tonal colors and sounds.
HOW LONG IS THE CONCERT? Individual musical selections range in length, but concerts are scheduled to last between 45-50 minutes.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT? Throughout the concert, the conductor will talk to the audience about things to think about or listen for while the Orchestra plays a particular piece of music. As music is an aural or "listening" experience, students will often be invited to use their imagination to create a visual image of the music or imagine they are "doing" something like painting a picture or visiting a faraway place or perhaps a distant time. While this helps make the concert more interesting for students attending, we encourage all teachers (and parents) to support the learning process by requesting a curriculum packet from our Education Department. The more familiar students are with the selections and what they will actually experience at the concert, the more engaging it will be for them.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR THE CONCERT? A specific curriculum packet and supplemental recordings have been created to assist teachers and parents in preparing their students and children to attend a live Orchestra concert. These guides are offered free of charge and teachers are encouraged to distribute them and use them in various ways. Many helpful hints are included to encourage creative and fun approaches to classical music. The guides also reinforce the skills taught in the classroom to prepare for standardized tests.
For additional information, please contact the Sarasota Orchestra Education Department at(941) 487-2731
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