Orkidstra
Established in 1998, Orkidstra is designed to increase elementary school students' abilities to perceive and comprehend music and to use those perceptions and ideas in the appreciation of all styles of music, including symphonic music. A multicultural, community-oriented music education program, Orkidstra aims to reach every 4th and 5th grade student in the Redlands Unified School District, selected students in the Yucaipa/Calimesa Joint Unified School District, and students at some private schools. All in all, over 4,000 children in 14 schools will have the opportunity to participate in this program, absolutely free of charge. For most of these students, Orkidstra provides the only comprehensive and interactive music education experiences they will ever receive.
Each participating school receives specially prepared curriculum-based classroom lessons, as well as in-school ensemble performances. The program culminates in a field trip to the Redlands Symphony's home, the University of Redlands Memorial Chapel, where the children will hear a free orchestral concert. In addition, the Symphony provides teachers with curriculum training and resources to enhance students' music learning. This community-oriented music program is a collaborative effort between the Redlands Symphony, the Redlands Unified School District and other community/arts agencies. To find out more about how you can help bring the music to the children, please call the Symphony office for information.
