“We tell students you really need to try things at least once to see if you like it, but ideally three times to truly get a feel.”
-Michelle Coy, Park City School District’s After School Program Manager
During a recent visit from Park City High School orchestra students, Jeremy Ranch Camp Hawk Afterschool students had the chance to learn what it means to be a part of the high school music program. Alongside orchestra teacher, Ms. Eva Marble, PCHS students showcased their instruments and talked with students about which instruments they may want to play one day.
“The moment that stood out most for our students was the chance to try instruments themselves under the direction of the high schoolers,” said Shannon Akin, JRES Camp Hawk coordinator.
The violin was a favorite. “The students were very inquisitive about the violin. They were most curious about the f-holes on the violin,” sparking questions about how the instrument works.
Connecting with high school musicians helped younger students see what’s possible. “Exposure creates excitement for the students and has the potential to create lifelong musicians,” Akin said.
High school musicians shared their commitment to music, the discipline behind their skills, and the opportunities that come along with the music program. High school students described friendships, performances, belonging and field trips as some of the most meaningful parts of being in the music program.
“Many students hadn’t seen or heard these instruments before, which sparked curiosity and led to many great questions,” Akin added.
PCEF donors support Afterschool, offering access to quality programming that works for working parents. New skills, activities, and community connections help build the confidence to try new things.
