The Atlantic Classical Orchestra provides local students the chance to experience classical music through an interactive peer-to-peer concert.
Atlantic Classical Orchestra (ACO), a professional orchestra that serves the Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches, launched its first ever School Concert initiative Thursday, November 17th. ACO’s Educational Outreach Manager, Ashley Alarcon, facilitated interactive musical performances at Citrus Grove Elementary School, in Port St. Lucie and Pinewood Elementary School in Stuart, featuring the Gunter Family Trio. The ensemble is comprised of violinist Brooke Gunter, age 16, cellist Brandon Gunter, age 14 and violinist Eva, age 12.
Professional Orchestra Launches New Music Education Program For Local School Childre
Audiences at both schools were awe-inspired by seeing these young artists perform in an approachable environment. They experienced not only the works themselves, but how these musical arrangements come to life through various instruments. Comments filled the room from, “Wow, they are kids! I would like to play music too,” or “That was really cool. I didn’t know a violin could sound like bird.”
The goal of this new program is two-fold. One, to enhance music education programs in area schools by reaching out to young audiences who might not otherwise have an opportunity to hear live music. Second, as part of its partnership program with the Treasure Coast Youth Orchestra (TCYO), the ACO is currently sponsoring select young musicians to enhance their symphonic interests by providing performance opportunities and ultimately greater exposure within the communities they reside. The Gunter Family Trio is sponsored by the ACO, who are also members of the TCYO, where Brooke Gunter holds the position of concert mistress.
With the hire of President & CEO, Alan Hopper in 2015, the orchestra has embarked upon a new vision of having greater engagement within the communities it’s serves by offering “enriching, educational, accessible musical experiences to Treasure Coast and Palm Beach residents.”
2017 is also unique to the Atlantic Classical Orchestra, as it is the inaugural season of new Music Director and Conductor David Amado. The excitement at the ACO is great with the addition of a Grammy-nominated Maestro, serving as a vital part in providing quality classical music entertainment, as well as programs to strengthen the growth of the performing arts.
Founded in 1990, the Atlantic Classical Orchestra (ACO) encourages and cultivates appreciation and understanding of classical music. Serving as a primary cultural resource in Palm Beach County and on the Treasure coast, the ACO presents performances at the highest artistic level. Its educational and outreach efforts include its popular Chamber Music Series, and an ongoing relationship with the Treasure Coast Youth Symphony. For more information, please call 772.460.0850 or visit www.ACO-music.org.
