Outreach
Community Outreach: Kids Love Opera!
Two Years ago, Career Bridges began its outreach program to the schools called “KIDS LOVE OPERA”. To date, we have reached 21 schools and more than 4,000 students in Westchester County We are committed to introducing opera to children from kindergarten to sixth grade in a way that is exciting, entertaining, leaving the students exhilarated and enriched with a music form that many have not yet had the opportunity to hear and see.
We have had an incredible response, and are seeking grants in order to reach more schools.
A few months ago, my children came home to tell me they were going to be studying opera, learning songs and seeing a performance. They actually seemed excited and I embraced this enthusiasm by asking them questions after every music class. I made a special effort to be there on the day of the performance. And then, the singers began. What magic! The children were so mesmerized, so engaged by the performance. They were ENJOYING it. I really got a kick out of hearing all of the children sing the Toreador song with the professionals. It truly was a day my children have never forgotten, and to this day they still sing the songs they learned through your program.
Michelle B., Parent
I must admit to being somewhat concerned when I learned that opera singers would be performing for us. Well, I have to tell you that I could not have been more pleased and amazed by the end of the three assemblies. Our children were rapt! I have been working in elementary schools for several years and this was one of the best musical experiences that I've seen children exposed to.
Greg Middleton, Assistant Principal, Mamaroneck Avenue School, White Plains, NY.
One of the strengths of our program is the enthusiastic participation of the students. Working together with the music teachers in each school, we design a unique program of selections from opera based on repertory of the selected singers. (We have over 20 award winners) Through their teachers, the students learn short selections from the music being performed and join with the singers during the program.
In addition to the benefit of introducing opera to young students, most of whom have never heard or participated in classical music, we are also building a future audience of opera lovers.
To help us, please contact us or click on How to Help.