Orchestra Hall to Host Event Celebrating Greater Minnesota's Music Educators

Next week, the Orchestra Hall will host an event featuring 54 music educators from 37 school districts across Greater Minnesota. They will work with Music Director Thomas Søndergård in two rehearsals and perform in two concerts on April 27 and 28. The event aims to support music educators and promote music programs in schools.

Søndergård acknowledged the importance of music educators in children's lives and highlighted the transformative power of music. Ahead of the event, some musicians shared their experiences with influential teachers.

Viola player Sifei Cheng spoke about his high school teacher, William Kennedy, who he described as a father figure. Kennedy supported Cheng's musical development without pressuring him to become a musician. Cheng remembered a visit from Kennedy at the Curtis Institute of Music in 1990.

Associate principal bass Kathryn Nettleman started learning an instrument in 4th grade. Her first group music-making experience was under the guidance of her teacher, Mrs. Sweger-Lutz. In 7th grade, Nettleman switched to the bass. Her band director, Joe Fallon, played a key role in her musical journey, connecting her with her first bass teacher and introducing her to professional musicians and performance opportunities.

The upcoming event at the Orchestra Hall highlights the crucial role of music educators in shaping musicians' lives and careers. It celebrates these educators and emphasizes the importance of music programs in schools. The stories shared by Cheng and Nettleman underscore the significant impact of these educators on their students' musical skills and personal growth.

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