From our earliest days, even before birth, we respond to music. Studies suggest that a baby will respond to sound by the beginning of the third trimester and can distinguish different types of music by the middle of the third trimester. As children, exposure to different types of music can aid in cognitive and language skills development, with particular promise for non-English speaking students or those from lower socio-economic environments struggling with language difficulties. An appreciation of music permeates every academic discipline, from the math inherent in notes and measures to the science of the sound produced by musical instruments or the language of an Italian aria.
Today’s children can easily identify the latest hits of the hot pop stars of the moment, but few have had exposure to classical music and instruments. In most of our schools, budget cuts have stripped music education. As people who love music, we have an opportunity to make the study and appreciation of music relevant for our young people.
We think the Holiday and Pops concerts are accessible to children and young people because there is plenty of action and stimulus to entertain a young audience. The Masterworks concerts are entirely up to your discretion. If your child is able to sit quietly, then please bring them.
