On April 15th, the students of the Plympton Elementary School were entertained and given an introduction to some of the music to be played by the Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra in its May 3rd concert, South of the Border! Music Director Michael Korn, along with WPO horn player Nancy Rosen, demonstrated the different sounds made by violin and horn, and discussed their artistic and emotional effects. The children have been studying the continent of South America this year, and have been invited to participate in the concert, where they’ll sing “The Star Spangled Banner” with orchestral accompaniment.
During the assembly, students offered perceptive observations about music and asked impressive questions that Michael enjoyed answering (e.g. “Isn’t a piano actually a string instrument, since it has strings?” Michael: “Great observation, but it’s considered percussion, since the hammers hit the strings.”)
In addition to relating their South American studies to the programmed composers (including Ginastera and Sarasate), students had a chance to hone their writing skills by creating the program notes that will be published for the concert. According to Gina DePaoli, Music Educator, several classes each focused on one composer and did research, selected important facts, and decided how to express those facts to enlighten and inform the WPO audience.
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So, how do these kids feel about music and performing with an orchestra? Fifth graders Colin, Nicolette, and Angel offered some thoughts. When asked what makes music special to them, Colin said, “Music tells a story, which is a part of you; there’s a talent where you can express your feelings.” Nicolette said, “I dance, and when I dance, I think only about the music and the tempo.” And, “Listening to music makes me feel happy,” said Angel. All three expressed excitement at the Plympton chorus having been chosen to sing with the WPO, with a little nervousness added. (They were assured, however, that the WPO is a very friendly group!)
The Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra is very pleased to have an Education and Outreach Program to connect to our local schools to make great musical experiences accessible to and enjoyable for all ages. Ms. De Paoli perhaps said it best: “It’s always nice to collaborate with community organizations and make connections between the classroom and real life. We happen to be studying Central and South America, and it’s so nice to find out that the WPO is doing this concert right here in Waltham.”
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South of the Border!
With the Participation of the Students of the Plympton School
Featuring violinist Chloe Lee, 2014 Winner WPO Student Concerto Competition
Saturday, May 3rd, 7:30 p.m.
Kennedy Middle School, 655 Lexington St., Waltham
Free Parking
Tickets: $20 Adult; $15 Senior; Children admitted FREE with paying adult.
Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra
Ticket Line: 857-919-1385
