Over the past 20 years, educators have come to accept the existence of a strong correlation between instruction in music and academic performance. Moreover, future audiences for classical music and the fine arts are in our elementary classrooms today.
Last year, the Fresno Philharmonic responded to the absence of music in Fresno schools by doubling our "Up Close & Classical" program of classroom instructional performances. What we had conceived as a supplement to school music programs turned out to be a lifeline.
Thus, we at the Fresno Philharmonic were delighted when the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra chose 10 Valley schools for its pilot "Keeping Score" program, and we were doubly gratified when the Fresno Unified School District reinstated its music programs.
We hope, however, that individuals and companies do not become complacent, thinking that nothing more need be done. We believe that music must be integrated with classroom learning, and not just regarded as an "extracurricular activity," if it is to thrive in future generations. We are currently exploring collaborations with Keeping Score and with local non-profit organizations. We urge educators and potential sponsors to contact the Philharmonic about its programs.
Robert Marsh, Education Coordinator, Fresno Philharmonic