LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Happy 2011! As is tradition at the start of the New Year, we at the Conservatory have made a resolution meant to last the full twelve months. But far from the nearly always futile swearing off of sweets, or some similar mandate based in negativism, we have pledged ourselves wholly to the redoubling of our efforts in the advocacy of the tremendous benefits of music education. With further cutbacks looming and economic uncertainty lingering, it is more important than ever that we work not just to sustain but to grow support for the idea of a well-rounded education—one that includes the arts—to ensure the future promise of a vital and creative workforce, creating a better society for us all. Many of you know that the Conservatory provided music education to over 14,000 students in Milwaukee Public, Charter and Choice schools last year. While that figure is impressive and we are most definitely proud of that achievement, it was not until we reviewed the most recent student survey evaluations that we truly appreciated the real-life impact of our programming. Not only did an overwhelming majority of students feel that they received a solid, motivating and rewarding education, but 86% agreed that the music education we provided helped them feel more creative and self-confident. As icing on the cake, 96% agreed that studying music helped them to take responsibility for their own learning and taught them the importance of discipline. Clearly these are important life lessons—analysis and synthesis, listening and patience, teamwork and leadership—and, in this case, the students became the teachers by reminding us once again of all the intrinsic and essential skills music education imparts. Benjamin Britten spoke of the “Holy Triangle” between composer, performer and listener, and how dependent we are on each other to create a wonderful music experience. Thanks to you for being such great listeners, for without you our perfect triad would be incomplete. We’ve got a great lineup of concerts during these winter months—including Latin Jazz, Schnittke and Shostakovich, original Jazz compositions, and Joe Ketchum’s electrified string ensemble featuring Xeno, former frontman of Cheap Trick—so take your rightful place with us and enjoy a wide diversity of wonderful music! Best wishes for a safe, healthy and happy New Year, Karen Deschere President & CEO The Conservatory of Music would like to thank the following sponsors for making all of these concerts possible. “Music for Every Stage” begins with your generosity...
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