Learning Music and Art with the Brooklyn Philharmonic

Unknown to most people, the Brooklyn Phil is the largest provider of free education to schools in Brooklyn and the second largest (after the Carnegie Corporation) in New York City as a whole.

Why? Because the Brooklyn Phil believes embracing music is an essential component of the educational process, and therefore the teaching of music is an important part of a professional orchestra’s work. The Brooklyn Phil also believes music is a universal language and a vehicle for creative expression. In the words of Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser, “Music develops the appetite for learning and creates habits of self-discipline and personal tenacity which carry over into every facet of school. These attributes are basic for success in higher education, and more importantly, succeeding in life.”

Partnerships for Music Education develops musical thinkers through active participation, fulfilling New York State Standards in Music and the five strands of the New York City Music Blueprint for Teaching and Learning in the Arts.

Students, Teachers and Citizens Served in 2010/11

In 2010/11, Brooklyn Phil reached more than 6,000 students (pre-K through grade 12) and teachers, employed over 80 professional musicians and teaching artists, held residencies/coachings in 23 schools, hosted 17 additional schools at annual School Time Concerts, as well as another 225 part-time students in 41 ensembles at the annual Student Chamber Ensemble Festival.

In addition, the Philharmonic’s FREE and low-cost community education concerts reached over 11,900 people with performances at Celebrate Brooklyn, the Bryant Park Fall Festival, and the Philharmonic’s acclaimed Music Off the Walls and Music Off the Shelves series.

(c) 2011 – 2012 Brooklyn Philharmonic