Symphonic educational programs: A study of the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra

This thesis seeks to show the validity of a more balanced approach to music education in public schools, focusing specifically on how a stronger influence from educational programs in community symphonies can help change the way the arts is perceived by teachers, administrators, and the community. It focuses on the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra (FSO) and its relationship to Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS). Chapter One reviews the history of music education in the United States. Chapter Two discusses the FSO's educational programs. Chapter Three describes the "Chamber Concerts for Young Audiences" program, which is assessed using the results of a survey administered to participants and audience members of the 1992 series of concerts. Chapter Four compares the educational programs of three similar symphonies to the FSO's program. Applying the results of the surveys and the comparison of programs, Chapter Five suggests recommendations for changes to the Fairfax Symphony's educational program.