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“What makes ClassNotes unique is the remarkably high level of artistry among the teaching musicians. Students learn in an intimate and intensive setting from musicians that the rest of the public pays top dollar to hear on the world’s most prestigious stages.”

Dear ClassNotes Musicians,

I just want to thank you for the amazing lessons you provided for my class. They loved your performance. They would ask, “When are the musicians coming? Do you think we can have their autographs?” You all were so energetic and caring. I liked the way each activity got each person directly involved and held their attention. They understood what a composer was and became one. That’s an experience they’ll remember forever.

As a result of your activities they have a love for classical music. They can name classical music composers, instruments, and know the differences in rhythms. You all have expanded their knowledge beyond what they already know about music. You all opened their mind to something new. They ask me to play classical music during our writing workshop. One student said, “Do we have time to play Antonio Vivaldi?” They have even been talking about playing an instrument. I was so glad our 3rd grade special education class was a part of this experience.

After this week, I have been thinking of ways I can incorporate music into my teaching as well. I saw children who normally are inattentive participate during your lessons because they had a passion for music. I thought about connecting music to poetry, like when you had the children write music to the haiku we made in class. You all showed how our setting, emotions, conflict, and characters can all be told through music by showing the variations in melodies, pitch, and tempo. If you ever want to work with my class again, we will be happy to have you.

“I was very impressed at the way you took all our suggestions and planned lessons and demonstrations at a third grade level. Thanks again for a wonderful job!”

“I really thought [ClassNotes] did a great job of explaining the music in relation to what the students had been studying in both their English and history classes. Your presentation was a good mix of information about music itself and connections to history and literature. I also liked how the comments about music were a mixture of the technical elements and the more subjective artistic elements. Another positive was that each member of the group had something to contribute, usually from a slightly different perspective, and each was quite personable and articulate. One point that I personally remember and have thought about when listening to chamber music was what you said about good chamber musicians being able to subvert their individual egos and share the “primacy” (my word) as the melody moves from instrument to instrument. One reason I remember that, I’m sure, is because immediately after explaining the concept you demonstrated it.”

“It’s so important for our country’s future that ClassNotes is doing such vital, creative musical work in the public schools! Fostering enthusiastic appreciation for classical music and it’s effect on every aspect of our being can make an immeasurable contribution to our society.”

“Exposure to the arts is vital in educating our youth to grow into compassionate and expressive adults.”