Detroit Country Day School Hosts Professional Orchestra Groups as a Part of Their Professional Partnerships Initiative

BEVERLY HILLS, Mich., January 7, 2013 — Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings (DCWS), a nationally recognized musical ensemble committed to preserving orchestra music through performances and educational programs, and the Michigan Philharmonic Orchestra, a 67-year-old volunteer community orchestra, both recently partnered with Detroit Country Day School (DCDS), an independent, non-denominational, college preparatory school, to work and perform with student musicians and vocalists at the Upper School (grades 9-12). DCDS Headmaster Glen Shilling made the announcement.

The DCDS Professional Partnerships Initiative Program encompasses a variety of programs, including personal training between skilled musicians and students, one-of-a-kind performance opportunities and educational workshops. The school’s fine and performing arts program routinely partners with professional artists and musician groups to broaden its curriculum, providing artistic experiences beyond traditional classroom activities.

“Our partnerships with Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings and the Michigan Philharmonic Orchestra build connections between our student musicians and professionals and gives students direct interaction with professional musicians and insight into how they can apply their talents to a career,” said Ronald Weiler, PK3-12 music department chair.  “Each time our students work with these seasoned experts, they gain a valuable perspective on how to be a better musician.”

During an interactive workshop and sectional rehearsals, students learn directly from the Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings musicians and gain valuable insights on the skills specific to their instrument. DCWS musicians demonstrate their technique and skillset for the students, and share personal stories and life lessons learned from being a musician.

The DCDS Upper School choir joined The Michigan Philharmonic Orchestra as part of their “Home for the Holidays” concert tour for the local community. The concert, held at the Seligman Performing Arts Center located at the DCDS Thirteen Mile campus, featured students singing festive holiday music with the orchestra while under the guidance of innovative and dynamic conductor, Nan Washburn.

To download photos from the mentoring sessions or the concert, please click below.

Music students learn tips from a professional member of the Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings in the school’s band room.

Nan Washburn conducts Detroit Country Day School students and members of the Michigan Philharmonic Orchestra (photo courtesy of Rachel Korotkin).

Detroit Country Day School students sing alongside the Michigan Philharmonic Orchestra during a recent holiday concert (photo courtesy of Rachel Korotkin).

Detroit Country Day School offers students from preschool through high school an exemplary education rooted in academic vigor and a commitment to the full development of each student’s potential. The school is an independent, coeducational, non-denominational, college preparatory school nationally recognized for excellence in academics, athletics and the fine and performing arts. Founded in 1914 by F. Alden Shaw, Detroit Country Day School today enrolls more than 1,500 students on four campuses located in Beverly Hills and Bloomfield Township, Michigan. For additional information, please visit www.dcds.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kristi Wysocki
248.258.2333
[email protected]