Education and Outreach Initiatives
The GPO believes that every child should have access to quality music education, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
Access to Music Education
Magic Baton Melody Contest Spring 2023 - Dylan Fixmer & Alex Sewell
Youth orchestras provide young musicians with a platform to cultivate their musical talents and foster a love for orchestral music. These ensembles offer a nurturing environment where participants can develop essential skills such as discipline, teamwork, and creativity. Through regular rehearsals and performances, youth orchestras instill a sense of dedication and commitment, helping to shape responsible and well-rounded individuals. Furthermore, these orchestras contribute to the cultural enrichment of communities by showcasing the immense potential and artistry of young talents. In essence, youth orchestras play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of musicians while promoting a deeper appreciation for the beauty and power of music. The Greeley Junior Philharmonic was first founded in 1947. Now, we are reinvesting in the Greeley Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.
On February 2nd, 2024, the GPO premiered “ZoOrchestra,” an event for 4th grade students in Greeley-Evans School District 6. Students explored multiple aspects of professional orchestras (including instruments, behind-the-scenes production, composition, and conducting) through games and activities. This early introduction is intended to act as an accelerator for participation in school music classes, while supporting the education curricula of their teachers. Event made possible by the Littler Youth Fund at Weld Trust and the Glen McDonald Memorial Fund at Weld Community Foundation. The 2024 participants were selected by lottery. We hope to expand in future seasons.
Empowering Musical Innovators
The GPO Composer-in-Residence, Dylan Fixmer, conducts free composition classes for Greeley-Evans School District 6 music classrooms. In 2022, Fixmer launched the inaugural “Magic Baton Melody Contest,” a composition contest serving local music students in grades 2-12. By providing a supportive environment and guidance from an expert composer and music educator, the GPO ensures that participants gain the necessary skills and confidence to express their musical ideas effectively. The workshops act as a springboard, launching young composers into a world of possibilities, where their artistic visions can take flight. Winning melodies are then orchestrated by Fixmer and presented at Poinsettia Pops in December and Sounds of Cinema in May.
Hands-On Learning
UNC Choirs with GPO Spring 2023
The GPO recognizes that future industry leaders need opportunities to gain experience in professional settings. In tune with this belief, we provide paid Music Business Internships for high school and collegiate students to develop skills in non-profit leadership, development, management, event production, and marketing.
Additionally, the GPO has a long-standing tradition of collaboration with the University of Northern Colorado (UNC), including side-by-side performances with the College of Performing and Visual Arts. Every season, the GPO performs a concert with the UNC combined chorus. Recent seasons have also included guest conductors and soloists from UNC.
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Benefits of Music Education
University of Southern California: Researchers find music education benefits youth wellbeing
Student Testimonials
Let me just say everyone sounded and looked amazing. I loved the fact that I could close my eyes and the music would paint a picture. The music told a story and I love that. - Carly (5th Grade)
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Let me just say everyone sounded and looked amazing. I loved the fact that I could close my eyes and the music would paint a picture. The music told a story and I love that. - Carly (5th Grade) 🎵
Dear Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra,
Let me just say everyone sounded and looked amazing. I loved the fact that I could close my eyes and the music would paint a picture. The music told a story and I love that.
Sincerely,
Carly (5th grade)
Dear GPO,
I really wanted to say thank you for making this amazing concert come true. Since I play violin it was really interesting how fast they went and the beautiful music that came out. I also loved how the bows all moved at the same time. I really like how they introduced all of the instruments.
Thank you guys so much,
Valeria (5th grade)
Dear Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra,
Thank you. My favorite part of the concert was the Danzon No. 2. It was my favorite song because it's from Mexico and me and my friends are also from Mexico. That’s why it's my favorite song.
5th grader
Dear orchestra members,
I truly cherished the event of the orchestra last evening. I loved the way you really taught us a lot about music. Like music is a kind of voice that speaks for the composer. It is because of this orchestra that I realize I can speak two languages. English and the language of music.
Yours truly,
Tiara