The Cliburn in the Classroom music program recently took guest musicians – and a grand piano – to Dallas ISD’s Jerry Junkins Elementary School.
“We do these programs because we believe music education is a big part of what helps kids grow emotionally, intellectually, psychologically,” said pianist Alex McDonald. “There’s no substitute, I believe, for having live music performed.”
Visiting schools is also fun, McDonald said, because he gets to present music students may never have heard before.
Cliburn in the Classroom has partnered with Dallas ISD for 11 years.
“Since 2006, the Cliburn Foundation has been sending professional pianists into Dallas ISD elementary schools, giving masterful live performances for our students,” said Tim Linley, executive director of Dallas ISD Visual & Performing Arts. “This year, the Cliburn will visit 30 Dallas ISD elementary campuses; we are so tremendously blessed to have our students exposed to the highest echelons of artistry through this collaboration.”
