In March, we proclaimed that Music For All was back. We weren’t wrong!
With the program reinvigorated by Eastman’s Assistant Professor of Chamber Music Dr. Sylvie Beaudette ’93E (DMA), acting as Music For All coordinator, the community-focused initiative brought music, learning, and a great deal of fun to 34 regional schools and 48 other venues including libraries, community centers, and senior residences across the Rochester metropolitan area.
Approximately 250 students performed chamber music repertoires for eager audiences of all ages. Engaging closely with small community groups outside of traditional performance environments is a valuable and enlightening experience for young musicians. Music For All allows students an opportunity to finesse not just their technique but also the delivery.
At the end of the program, students gave anonymous feedback about their experiences, with one student saying, “Having to verbally communicate our music to the audience helped us understand our own pieces more, and it was very valuable to think about music expressively instead of technically.”
Another said, “I think community outreach is a critical skill for musicians to have. It is crucial that musicians know how to make an effective presentation for different age groups and demographics as this will play a large part in our professional lives.”
The Five Wind Quintet plays to an audience at the Chili Community Center.
Audiences warmly received the performances and Dr. Beaudette received widespread praise for the students’ musicality and professionalism:
“Eastman did an excellent job, not only musically, but also educationally. Their interactions with the students were easy and natural, and the performance was passionate and compelling.” Dean Keller – Longridge Band
The Shostakovish Piano Trio plays to a group of young students at the Walt Disney Elementary.
“I want to thank each of you for the fantastic performance you offered our audience. We appreciated the fact that you each answered so many questions about your instruments, your background, and future goals.” Peggy O’Neil – Penfield Public Library
“The experience was deeply inspiring for our students, and I am so grateful for our wonderful collaboration. The musical program was fabulous, and our students enjoyed asking questions and seeing the instruments up close.” Jonathan Allentoff – Hillel Community Day School
“I would love for this to be something that we can mark as an annual event. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, this was so much needed for our school.” Emanuel Williams – The Kessler Center, Easter Seals
“Residents sought me out to let me know how much they enjoyed the performance by Bells N Roses & Daphne Trio. One of them asked if I would be able to book them again!” Betsy Wells – Cloverwood Cultural Arts
Miles Below performs at the Jewish Community Center.
Professor of Harp Kathleen Bride, who helped launch the program in 1995, always felt that the goal for the community was not only to attend, but to engage actively with the musicians and ask questions. Bride knew this would lead to a greater understanding and appreciation of the music and the role of the musician. Feedback from our many audiences backs up Bride’s assertion.
“Our patrons appreciated how students took the time to explain their instruments as well as the selections chosen to perform, and the opportunity to engage ask specific questions. Many of us are looking forward to coming to Eastman and enjoying more concerts by other students.” Sue Writz – Rush Public Library
“We were impressed with the way that the students interacted with our group and provided education around what they were playing. I could have listened all day!” Shelley Ball – Community Arts Connection
The group QuinTed pictured with a group of future musicians at Leary Elementary.
In total, Beaudette heard 25 MFA performances (out of 120+ performances) around the Rochester area and can attest that students were professional, well prepared, and engaged well with their audience. “I found it interesting, but not surprising, that the spoken presentation preparation helped groups with their musical performance as well,” she said. “They played with more conviction, presence, and contrasts as they had to make the music clearer for their audience.”
Eastman alumni who have participated in MFA in the past always have wonderful memories of their experience. “Community engagement and finding connections with your audience are essential skills in today’s musicians’ toolbelt,” Beaudette concludes. “It’s vital to keep classical music alive and accessible to the public. For Eastman students, Music For All is an introduction to community engagement where they’ll get to grow and become more comfortable over time. It will again be a part of the Eastman education and culture.”
To read more about Music For All and it’s return, read Eastman’s earlier blog.
For more information about Music For All, please contact Dr. Sylvie Beaudette, Music For All Coordinator: sbeaudette@pdc-f5-www-esm.rochester.edu-vs.its.rochester.edu or (585) 274-1415.
*All photos provided by Sylvie Beaudette.