SECOND GRADE OUTREACH PROGRAM

The CCO's Successful Youth Outreach Program visits the schools in and around Tompkins County each spring to provide a classical music experience for youngsters - right in their classrooms. For over fourteen years, an ensemble of CCO musicians has visited second-grade classrooms over a six county area to introduced children to the joys of classical music.

The program consists of three phases:

• A docent musician from the CCO visits each school to introduce the sceond grade classes to the theme and prepare them for the upcoming visit of a small ensemble.
• The small ensemble of CCO musicians then engages the children in an intruduction to the oboe, viola, violin, and cello. They talk about music as a vehicle for expression and introduce the children to musical concepts.
• The program culminates in a visit to Ithaca High School's Kulp Auditorium where the 700 second graders attend a one hour concert given by the award-winning Ithaca High School Orchestra, led by conductor George Myers. This year, the children enjoyed selections from Beethoven's Fifth Symphony, Pictures at an Exhibition, The Great Gate of Kiev by Mussorsky, New World Symphony Finale by Dvorak, Barber of Seville, and pieces by Rossini.

Research has shown that studying an instrument enhances in-class motivation, understanding, academic performance and test scores. By familiarizing students with instruments before they have the opportunity to participate in the school's instrumental instruction program, the CCO hopes to promote individual music study in elementary school and beyond. The CCO is happy to share their enthusiasm and interest with these lucky second-graders!

YOUTH CONCERTS

The Cayuga Chamber Orchestra presents Children's Concerts upon request. Last year, youth audiences were treated to performances of Rumplestiltskin and Peter and the Wolf. If your classroom or community is interested in bringing one of our youth programs to your school, please contact the Executive Director, Sheila Ossit