In 1999, in collaboration with DC Public School (DCPS) teachers, administrators, and community representatives, the Choral Arts Society launched artsACCESS – Arts for Children Create Educational Success in Schools.  The artsACCESS program employs the creative and participatory nature of music and the arts to teach across the curriculum in such subjects as reading, mathematics, science, and social studies.  This program was developed to help counteract the decline of arts education in public schools and is the only arts-in-education initiative of its caliber and scope undertaken by a chorus throughout the country.  Classroom lessons implemented in artsACCESS are designed in partnership with classroom teachers and are directly connected with national and DC Public Schools (DCPS) curriculum standards and the DCPS values code.  As an arts-integration program, these classes, along with the professional development provided to the teachers, creates a lasting impact on all involved.

In addition to the artsACCESS initiative, CASW has expanded its education programs to provide learning opportunities to older members of the community. CASW’s Partner High School program provides high school students with various musical learning experiences and tools to help them in their musical endeavors. These experiences may include artist visits and workshops in their schools, student study guides which coincide with subscription series concerts, dress rehearsal attendance (transportation provided by CASW) and complimentary and/or student discount tickets. 

Older audience members will also find many educational experiences tailored to their needs in the pre- and post-concert lectures. Three lectures are offered throughout the subscription season to supplement each concert’s musical selections. Speakers may include Artistic Director, Norman Scribner, and guest lecturers who are acclaimed in their field and can provide insight and interesting views to patrons who are interested in broadening their musical understanding.        

Patrons who choose to donate to Community and Education Programs will be helping support the above education initiatives. These programs are vital in the effort to support the growth of the Greater Washington Community. Please contact Emily Riffle for more information.

Emily Riffle, Director of Special Events and Annual Fund

eriffle@choralarts.org

(202) 244-3669 (phone)

(202) 244-4244 (fax)

5225 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Suite 603

Washington, DC 20015-2016