The Need: More Music Education in Schools
Music education is limited in Santa Cruz County, and is provided on a school by school basis. Some schools have music teachers, some don’t. Some grades have music teachers, some don’t. We want to work to help fill that gap.
The Symphony has been offering free concerts to 4th and 5th graders for almost 50 years and an in-class classical music listening program for the past five. We’ve heard great things about how these programs have positive effects on children’s lives, and we want to have an even bigger impact by providing ongoing music education — teaching children how to read music and to play an instrument.
What is Link Up?
Link Up is a free music education program offered by Carnegie Hall who has partnered with orchestras across the globe. For the first time this year, we are partnering with them to implement their LInk Up program inSanta Cruz County, bringing ongoing music education to students in our community.
What Your Symphony is Doing
Over 2500 4th and 5th graders throughout the county have joined the Santa Cruz Symphony in this highly participatory program. They are currently learning to read music, understand rhythm, sing, and play the recorder in their classrooms. On February 20 and 21, they will come together and perform with the Santa Cruz Symphony from their seats at one of our four free Youth Concerts. The Link Up program and materials are free to schools, and through the help of donations, the Symphony provided over 1000 recorders to students in need.
Thank You!
Many, many to thank donors like you, our partners at SC County Office of Education and Pajaro Valley Unified School District, and the many teachers countywide without whom this program would not be possible.