Upcoming Fundraiser Supports FREE Outreach Programs
Classics 4 Kids presents a virtual fundraiser to support their new online arts education programming for the 20-21 school year. Learn.Create.Connect was designed to support teachers by bringing live music directly into the virtual classroom during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The pandemic has required significant changes to San Diego County’s public education systems, creating even more barriers to exposing students in low-income elementary schools to the benefits of music education. We are adapting our programming to continue promoting an arts-rich environment to the schoolchildren that need it the most”, said Kiran Shelat, Executive Director of Classics 4 Kids.
When a teacher registers for Learn.Create.Connect, a professional musician or conductor will visit the virtual classroom for 20 minutes . The music educator will showcase their instrument, perform an age-appropriate piece of music, discuss it with the students, and answer questions. Tailored to the specific grade level, this interactive presentation includes Social and Emotional Learning components. Activity packets that supplement the learning outcomes before and after the session are also provided.
“Social and Emotional Learning components are critical features of our educational philosophy, especially during this unprecedented school year”, said Dana Zimbric, Artistic Director of Classics 4 Kids. “Studies have shown that school music programs build self esteem, lessen feelings of alienation, and provide a common bond… all of which are so important when students are feeling isolated from their peers”, explained Zimbric.
Over 65 teachers in San Diego County have already registered to receive a virtual Meet & Greet from a Classics 4 Kids educator, with many more requests coming in daily as virtual programming is launched. Classics 4 Kids is currently fundraising to sustain this program for as long as public schools are engaged in distance learning. Arts nonprofits currently need public support more than ever due to the rapidly changing economic landscape of COVID-19.
The Virtual Soiree & Fundraiser takes place on Sunday, October 4, 2020 from 4-5 PM. Pre-registered donors receive a bottle of wine, hand-made wine bag, and admission. “We are so excited to be featuring a virtual performance from the Stars Aligned Sibling Quartet,” said Zimbric. “They are the youngest professional classical string quartet in the world and have performed internationally at festivals and events in Mexico, Argentina and England. I have complete faith that our guests and donors will be wowed!” The protégé siblings, ages 7, 10, 12 and 13 will live-stream their performance from their home studio in San Francisco and answer questions from the audience.
Other entertainment included in the virtual event lineup feature remarks from the organization’s leadership, educators, and local teachers. Additionally, Zimbric will interview a local wine expert who will provide tasting tips for donors to enjoy with their gifted bottle of wine. All donors also have a chance to win a gift certificate to Smallgoods Cheese Shop & Café. All proceeds raised at this virtual event will directly support Classics 4 Kids’ new virtual Learn.Create.Connect programs benefitting low-income elementary schools in San Diego.
High resolution photo is available upon request.
Dana Zimbric, Artistic Director & Conductor, is available for an interview/demonstration.