Thanks to a new partnership involving the Greater Essex County District School Board
(GECDSB), the University of Windsor Faculty of Education and the Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO), an innovative program is providing young musicians with observational learning opportunities and providing wonderful entertainment to the Windsor-Essex community.
Throughout the summer, members of the Windsor Symphony Youth Orchestra (WSYO) have performed at several locations across Windsor and Essex County and in schoolalong side school bands. In-school performances include “open rehearsals” where WSYO musicians demonstrate to students from kindergarten through grade six how they work on a piece and how they collaborate in rehearsals to make their music better.
Previous performances have included schools in Windsor, Amherstburg and Lakeshore.
Robert Franz, WSO Music Director speaks to the importance of the program:
“Young Musicians in the Community program helps participants develop important life skills of teamwork, resiliency and active listening. In addition to learning about ownership and responsibility for one’s work, these young musicians also learn about civic engagement and experience the joy of giving back to the community.”
Students emcee their concerts, providing information and highlights about each piece on the program. They answer questions about their instruments, playing experiences, and help to provide a fun and entertaining experience. The concerts are also emceed in French to support French immersion learning in schools. Some music performed include Chopin, Louis Armstrong, Cyndi Lauper and Leonard Cohen.
An upcoming performance takes place at West Gate Public School, 1275 Campbell Ave, Windsor on July 22, 2022.
