‘Young People’s Concerts – Feb. 8
February 1, 2012 by sttalbot
Filed under Additional Info.
The annual “Young People’s Concerts” for elementary and secondary grade students, with a special presentation of “Peter and the Wolf,” will take place Feb. 8, at 9:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m., at the Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Avenue in Bakersfield.
The Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of John Farrer and with the generous support of the Kern County Superintendent of Schools, Diane S. Lake Family, Chevron, Wells Fargo Bank, Harry and Ethel West Foundation, Target, Bank of America, and Valley PBS, will present two 45-minute concerts. The symphony’s rendition of Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf” will feature ballet performances by the Civic Dance Center.
Each of “Peter and the Wolf’s” characters is identified by a tune played with a particular instrument, demonstrating for students how the composer uses melodies, rhythm and harmony to tell the story. Prior to the concert, students will be introduced to symphony instruments and the distinctive sounds they make by Farrer and members of the orchestra.
Students gain knowledge about composers, artistic perceptions, historical context, and creativity to help in their understanding of music. Listening to the symphony orchestra and watching the dance center’s interpretation adds to each child’s enjoyment and appreciation of the music.