During the National and State of Michigan Youth Art Week (September 12-18, 2010), the Grand Rapids Symphony will present nearly 100 performances in area schools representing programs for nearly 9,000 Kindergarten through sixth graders, as well as hands-on programs for nearly 4,000 fourth graders. These performances are part of the Symphony’s extensive Artists in Residence (AIR) program, begun in the early 90s, which will serve 45 schools from communities ranging from Howard City to Douglas as well as Grand Rapids Public Schools and other local districts this year, totaling more than 17,000 students.
For many students in the AIR Program, this program will be their only experiences with classical music. As schools continue to suffer greater and greater financial pressures, these experiences become more vital to the successful development of the Total Child, as traditional in-school music programs are being cut.
The AIR program is made possible through the generous support of the following donors: Chase, Keller Foundation, Jim & Mary Nelson, Porter Foundation, RoMan Manufacturing, and the Kate & Richard Wolters Foundation.
To learn more about the Grand Rapids Symphony Education Programs, click here to download the Symphony's Education Brochure. To help support one of the many ways the Grand Rapids Symphony is making a difference for the children in our greater Grand Rapids community, contact the Symphony at 616/454-9451.