P.O. Box 72810
Newport, KY 41072
2019-20 Free Education Outreach Series
The Kentucky Symphony Orchestra (KSO) seeks to enrich, educate and entertain the residents of Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati through thematic, innovative presentations designed to make symphonic music — attractive, accessible and affordable. A grant from the Dater Foundation supported the 2019-20 Free Education/ Outreach Series helping the KSO be a vital and supplemental resource for local teachers and area schools.
The Series included two programs, offered free of charge to all area schools: “Getting to Know You — the Halloween Edition” concerts for grades 3-6, an introduction to the instruments of the orchestra, held at 7Hills Church in Florence, KY; and “Rags to Riches” concerts, for grades 7-12, tracing the roots of America’s popular musical heritage (ragtime, blues and early jazz from 1898 to 1933), while highlighting composer/musicians with Cincinnati connections. Rags to Riches was performed in the Harriett Tubman Theater at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Question and answer sessions followed all KSO education programs.
Overall, 86.4% of teachers report that KSO programs fill a gap in the musical education opportunities that their schools offer. The series reached a total of 3,741 students (57% economically disadvantaged) and 328 teachers/chaperones from 54 schools (and 3 social service agencies). Participating schools came from nine counties – Boone, Campbell, Grant, Kenton, and Pendleton in Kentucky, and Warren, Clermont and Hamilton in Ohio and Dearborn, Indiana (located in 37 zip codes – 19 in Kentucky, 17 in Ohio and 1 in Indiana.) Data As a result of participating teacher surveys indicate:
• 94% stated “My students have learned new musical concepts and language.”
• 96% believe “my students’ appreciation of the arts has increased.”
• 89% assert that “My students would not have as many high-quality opportunities to experience music if the KSO did not offer these free programs.”
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