Bringing classical music to a generation more accustomed to rap or rock ‘n’ roll sounds like an ambitious endeavor that only an out-of-touch music teacher would attempt.
But on Wednesday, the Lake Forest Symphony did just that, holding the rapt attention of some 3,000 grade schoolers with “symphonic-theater” performances about the life and music of Ludwig van Beethoven.
“It was interesting. I liked the music because it (tells) a story. It’s soft, then deep,” said Xavia Brooks, a 5th grader at Hart School in North Chicago, who may have discovered a new calling Wednesday.
“I’m going to be a violinist,” the 11-year-old declared.
If Xavia was at all indicative of the pupils who crowded into a hall at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center for two performances of “Beethoven Lives Upstairs,” the concerts were a resounding success.
A collaboration of the Lake Forest Symphony and the Toronto-based Children’s Group, the concerts try to “educate, entertain and enlighten,” said symphony President Jean Beck.
The Lake Forest Symphony has been putting on children’s shows for 26 years. Two more performances Thursday will bring an additional 3,000 or so pupils from elementary schools throughout the north and northwest suburbs.
“Beethoven Lives Upstairs” combines 25 excerpts from the composer’s works with a dramatic presentation by two actors about Beethoven’s life. The 50-minute performances appeared to hold the attention of most of those present Wednesday.
“It’s different than the music I listen to, but I liked it,” said Jennica Sehweizer, a 5th grader at Hart School.
In the days leading up to the concert, many of the teachers took advantage of the opportunity to introduce classical music and details on the life of Beethoven into their lesson plans.
“For some students, it awes them (to see it in person) because we play music in our classes,” said Jaime Rosario, a 6th-grade teacher at Webster Middle School in Waukegan who brought his class to a performance.
“It takes time, but the more exposure they have to it, the more they become accustomed to it,” Rosario said. “Music is universal.”
Most of the pupils rarely, if ever, see a symphony orchestra perform.
“It’s a great opportunity. The kids are exposed to things they aren’t normally exposed to,” said Beverly Jones, a teacher at Hart School. “It could be a little light bulb for them.”
Conductor Crafton Beck said the concerts are meant to “bring Beethoven to life. It’s a great program for the area.”
Concert coordinator Joan Meigs said she thought the idea worked.
“They were really listening,” she said. “I think it really touches the hearts of the kids.”
