For some reason, many educational institutions get a bum deal in classical music performances. Sure Juilliard, Northwestern, Curtis Institute.... the world famous music schools have a large and dedicated following. The smaller state and local educational organizations train our future performers and teachers, entertain their campus, and serve their communities. These local institutions often attract students and parents. I know I am biased - I do work in higher education, but it often feels like our concerts go "under the radar" of the general public. I want to help change this.
I want to encourage you to go to a school campus this year and experience their music program. On the concert calendar for this blog I have listed many of the local college concerts and recitals. If you make a quick phone call or email you local high school, middle school, or elementary school I am sure you can find out their concert dates. Many of these concerts are free, or are very reasonable in cost. Some of the local schools have AMAZING concert auditoriums, and need to be appreciated by more of our community. With a little digging you can find some rewarding events to attend.
Student ensembles and concerts are thrilling to listen to. They sometimes lack the ease and polish of a professional ensemble, but they never lack in intensity, conviction, and excitement. There is nothing like the sound of a young orchestra performing Beethoven for the first time. Hearing young musicians perform gives us the honor to watch history passed down to a younger generation. It is inspiring. Whether you go to hear the orchestra at PLU, the Wind Ensemble at UPS, the Tacoma Youth Symphony, or the Mason Middle School Honor Band - you will have a thrilling experience.
Most college campuses also offer faculty concerts and recitals. These are events you do not want to miss! Some of the most accomplished musicians in our area teach at local colleges. They want to share their music, to model for their students, and to bond with our community. This weekend there are two such events: Friday evening at UPS, and Saturday afternoon at PLU.
So why would you not want to attend a campus concert event?
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