“A painter paints pictures on canvas. But musicians paint their pictures on silence.”- Leopold Stokowski
The museum offers an extraordinary number of programs to its visitors. While I covered a few in depth in my other blog posts, I thought I would use another to briefly mention some that I myself did not get to experience during my internship up to this point . While I was not able to actively participate in these programs, I did learn about them as they are vital components to the Education department's variety of offerings. Many of these were discussed in meetings as preparations have begun to occur.
Bill of Rights: The Remix
The name of this program speaks directly to the content it focuses on, the Bill of Rights. This program, formerly called Music Matters and Freedom Sings, highlights the history of the United States. It tells the story of how our country came to be through music. Country, hip-hop, rock n' roll, and more are all used in the show. Issues of freedom of speech and protesting are also highlighted to make connections between music and how it fits into the history of the U.S.
String City
Similar to how Bill of Rights: the Remix focuses on history of the U.S., String City showcases the history of Nashville through puppetry. Students get to experience how music evolved in Music City starting with the basic instruments of country music, the creation of the Grand Ole Opry, and ending with present day songs. Popular country artists are even represented through the show in puppet form. This particular program is unique in that it combines social studies, music, and art in a fun, engaging way that simultaneously teaches students.
Is it a Fiddle or Violin?
This program focuses on the differences and similarities between music and instruments given their geographical location. The museum partners with the Nashville Symphony and provides students with different genres of music. In reference to the title of this program, "What is the difference between a fiddle and a violin?" The answer is NOTHING. The only difference is that the instrument is called a fiddle in the south or in relation to country music, whereas it is referred to as a violin in classical music. The different styles in which musicians play the instrument indicate whether it is a fiddle or violin as well.
All programs can be offered free of charge to students in Metro Nashville Public Schools or Davidson County. If a school does not fall within these zoning lines, the coordinator of the field trip can apply to receive funds from the Arts Access Fund, a subsidy that provides funds to schools or groups for their field trip if they are unable to pay. The museum also highlights the Tennessee Art's Commission, who also provides funds for schools who show a need for their trip to be subsidized. Whether it be for the actual cost of tickets, transportation, or distance learning fees, schools are able to receive funds through both of these accounts.
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