PCEF Funding Focus - Youth Orchestra
Did you know that PCEF helps fund several student music programs?
For the last two summers, PCEF has funded the scholarship portion of the Youth Summer Orchestra program. This program features one or two weeks of intensive workshops alongside professional musicians, in conjunction with the Park City Chamber Music Festival and Deer Valley Music Festival. PCHS sophomore Jeremy Billow says, “The best thing about the Summer Orchestra Program is the opportunity to play challenging music alongside professional musicians, with a professional conductor.”
New this year is the Youth Orchestra After-School Program for 3 – 5th graders. Students from all four elementary schools are welcome to attend this year at McPolin Elementary. As PCHS/TMIS Orchestra Teacher Stephen Fairbanks states, “McPolin Strings! is designed to empower students through music. By participating together in an orchestra, students acquire leadership, commitment, and responsibility. PCSD boasts an excellent music program, which consistently receives top ratings at state festivals. This will strengthen the music program at the elementary level and provide arts-rich curriculum to all students involved.”
PCEF is funding the cost of the instruments for the program. PCSD and the Utah Symphony are funding the rest, so the program is free to the students! In addition, PCHS students will be mentors and assistant teachers to the program, giving everyone involved exceptional life experience.
PCEF was also able to partially fund a grant for baritone ukuleles for the Parley’s Park 5th grade music program. Music teacher Aaron Webb uses the ukuleles so the 5th graders can continue to learn to play an instrument after the 4th grade recorder curriculum. The ukuleles are fun and easy to master! PCEF and Mr. Webb are hoping to find a donor to fund the rest of the cost of the program this year.
Finally, Trailside Elementary did not want to wait for an instrument-oriented music program! They won the Walk-A-Thon Challenge during PCEF’s Running with Ed race. With the $5,000 granted to them, they bought 30 baritone ukuleles to use in their 4th and 5th grade music program.
These grants meet our vision of inspiring excellence and innovation in the Park City School District. Remember, just $1 per day per student helps fund these high impact programs that advance student achievement.
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