It is a strange and trying time for all of us in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. We certainly understand times are tough for you, as it is for us. We have been proud to bring School Band & Orchestra for free for more than two decades and we will continue to provide you with free subscriptions during the pandemic. However, we would like your consideration in these difficult times to help support our efforts here at School Band & Orchestra to keep our information flowing and to provide you with a continuous stream of current and vital information when you need it the most.
It is with the utmost sincerity we ask you to consider supporting our efforts here with a small donation which will allow our staff the ability to keep these interesting stories about your chosen career coming to you in a consistent and timely basis. Your consideration is greatly appreciated. We at School Band & Orchestra wish nothing but the best for you, your school, your family and co-workers. We hope you continue to remain healthy during this most strenuous of times.
The Shining Eyes report indicates that there are large numbers of adults who had “some interest in classical music, although less than five percent actually attended concerts by their local symphony orchestra.” The single most important variable in the report that predicted future attendance at classical music performances was previous instrumental or choral training. In 74 percent of the cases studied, ticket-holders had been involved in a school choir, band, or orchestra. This research helps to validate the theory that many of us have held for many years that when you sing or play an instrument, you develop an appreciation of the melodies, harmonies, technique, and musicality that it takes to enjoy a classical performance. It helps to develop your ear as a critical listener and also exposes you to a wide variety of different styles of music, of which a large portion is usually classical. It only makes sense that the natural understanding is for a player to become a listener (while hopefully remaining a player as well).
As educators, we hold the keys to the future of our own performing art. Our students are the most likely candidates to not only attend future concerts but also to become future monetary supporters of the arts as they become non-musical and musical professionals in their chosen fields. The more we can encourage concert attendance, the greater the likelihood of a brighter future for classical music.