(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Elementary school students in southern Colorado had an enriching day filled with educational experiences. They were treated to a captivating performance by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and received motivational insights from a renowned Olympian.
District 11 Superintendent, Michael Gaal, emphasized the importance of leveraging resources within the downtown area by hosting the Philharmonic at the Watson campus. The students, some of whom were stepping into a high school-sized auditorium for the first time, were enthralled by the experience.
Olympic triathlete Hunter Kemper engaged the young audience by narrating the performance, shedding light on the orchestra’s dynamics and showcasing how each musician contributes to the symphonic masterpiece unfolding before them.
Monica Slabach, Drama Teacher at Jackson Elementary School, expressed initial concerns about the young students’ attention span during the performance. However, the combination of an Olympian narrator and interactive elements like the Orchestra Games made the experience both engaging and educational for the children.
During the Orchestra Games, students had the opportunity to evaluate different performances and root for their favorites, fostering a sense of excitement and involvement among the audience.
The culmination of Kemper’s narration led to a mesmerizing display by around 70 talented musicians, illustrating how the orchestra’s diverse sections collaborate harmoniously to produce the enchanting music.
Nathan Newbrough, President and CEO of the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, highlighted the broader lessons beyond music that such experiences impart to young minds. Themes of resilience, teamwork, and grit were underscored, resonating not just with aspiring musicians but with all individuals facing challenges in various aspects of life.
The event not only aimed to introduce students to orchestral music but also to encourage self-discovery and exploration. The intersection of sports and music was emphasized, drawing parallels between the crowd’s energy at a sports event and the uplifting ambiance created by music.
The commitment to nurturing artistic talents and integrating arts into the curriculum was evident in the district’s initiative, as articulated by Slabach, reflecting a broader investment in fostering creativity among students.
The collaboration with the community made the event possible, ensuring that the students’ exposure to the arts was not a one-time occurrence. Each student received two complimentary tickets, providing them with another opportunity to bask in the enchanting performances by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic.
Newbrough emphasized the value of this ongoing engagement, with each student and their family receiving tickets worth approximately $80 to attend a Philharmonic performance during the season. This initiative not only enriches the students’ cultural experiences but also fosters a lasting connection with the world of orchestral music.