By Jennifer Darrell-Sterbak
The Musical Journeys Program of the Fredonia School of Music continues its sixth season of free concerts designed to appeal to very young children. Selected student ensembles from the Fredonia School of Music will perform half-hour Children's Concerts on four Saturday mornings with two performances at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 am on Saturday, March 3, in the Darwin R. Barker Library, 7 Day Street in Fredonia.
Planned with the help of SUNY Fredonia faculty who are experts in music and education, the concerts are designed to introduce very young audiences (from infants to 6-year-olds) to musical instruments. The child-friendly environment will invite the children to sit on the floor close to the musicians; family members are encouraged to bring blankets or carpet squares to sit on. Strollers can be parked around the edges of the seating area.
"It is wonderful to see the college student's enjoyment performing for the children, and to see the energy and excitement the children give in return. This venue gives preschool children a great chance to get close to the musicians and the music; to really participate and experience music intended just for them," said Sarah Hamilton, associate professor of oboe and co-organizer.
The African Drumming Ensemble will perform at the March 3 concert. The musicians are Fredonia School of Music students Matthew Aubeuf of Sylvan Beach, Jamie Sunshine of Williamsville and Joseph Ianaconi of Islip.
"The Children's Concerts are enjoyable, child-appropriate opportunities for very young children to interact with music and musicians. For the young audience and the performers, music becomes a playmate to join in a thrilling adventure." said Jill Reese, assistant professor of music and co-organizer at the Fredonia School of Music. "During these events, learning and teaching among the children and the student musicians is mutual: children learn about music through moving, listening, and creating, and our student musicians learn to engage young imaginations and ignite new musical passions!"
Upcoming Children’s Concerts will be held on Apr. 21, 2012 at the Dunkirk Free Library featuring a flute and guitar duo performing Bossa Nova and Choro music.
The Children's Concert Series is part of the Musical Journeys Program, a community outreach project offered by the Fredonia School of Music. More information is available at www.fredonia.edu/music/community/ccs.asp or call 716-673-4628.
