OUTREACH PROGRAMS

International Children’s Series (Grades K-8)—Through our partnership with the Arts Council of Fairfax County, we have had the privilege of hosting groups from China, Russia, Armenia, Sweden, England, Mexico and South Korea.  In 2006, local students were treated to a dance performance and workshop by their contemporaries attending the Erenköy Primary School from Istanbul, Turkey.  The Turkish students performed their native dance, then went out into the audience and invited local students up to the stage.  We will again participate in this timely and much needed program in 2007, which is scheduled for Monday, September 24, 2007 at the James Monroe High School  It is our hope that through this program, local students will gain an understanding and appreciation for other cultures.

Young Artists Competition— This juried program is for students aged 18 and younger who are gifted in classical music.  Cash, savings bonds, and an opportunity to perform before the world-class musicians during our annual Chamber series, as well as to be the featured soloist with local orchestra groups are just a few reasons why participation and interest in this competition continues to grow.  Each year sees an increase in the number of participants, the quality of the student performances, and the level of difficulty both attempted and achieved.

Virginia Opera Performances for Young Audiences (Grades K-8)— Due to the generosity of a donor in the Fredericksburg area, coupled with VCA touring dollars made available to us via the Virginia Opera’s Education and Outreach group, we were able to expand this program in 2007 by more than 30% over and above last year’s numbers by bringing the performances directly into the schools—while still maintaining our tradition of providing the performances to the students free of charge.  The program often gives children grades K-8 their first exposure to opera’s unique way of telling stories through a combination of music and dramatic presentation, and the program fulfills Virginia’s (SOLs). SOL guidelines and teacher packets are provided upon request to facilitate the children’s learning experience.  As David Vita, music teacher at Moncure Elementary School wrote us in November:

“Thank you for this opportunity.  Anne E. Moncure Elementary School is a “Title I” school and, as such, many of our students are great kids who are economically disadvantaged.  Many of our students would rarely get and (sic) opportunity, or be able to afford, a grand performance by the Virginia Opera.  To have such a generous opportunity “fall into our lap” is wonderful.  We truly hope you will accommodate our school with a performance.  For many of our students, this would be an unforgettable “first” in their lives as citizens of the arts.  Please don’t hesitate to let us know how we may help (and further influence you!) to facilitate a performance at our school.”

Our success in growing this program has been one of FFA’s proudest achievements in recent years.  We expect it will continue to grow in both its popularity and the number of students we can serve. 

Arts in Motion—This year-round program is a win-win, providing local artists and performers the opportunity to showcase their talents to nursing and retirement home residents, and providing the occasion for these residents to socialize and enjoy the energy of a professional musical performance or theatrical presentation.  Once again, this is a program in which we seek to serve members of our community who would otherwise be unable to participate in such events.

Check Upcoming Events for Dates and Times.

Stay tuned for further information on other FFA programs.