Juilliard's school-based outreach programs begin with a belief that effective student teachers/performers, working with an understanding of the school system, can forge a lasting love of the arts in their young pupils. In bringing school children a qualified, dedicated student teacher, the programs ensure an integrated educational plan with the potential to transform young lives.
Through their support systems for Juilliard student teachers-in-training, the programs also prepare a new generation of performers/educators, whose desire to instill a knowledge of music in others will be molded through rigorous training and invaluable practical experience.
The programs are offered to schools that are able to form meaningful partnerships with Juilliard. Schools are selected based on their ability to house and provide administrative support for the programs within their existing framework. Teachers participate in an annual training program that prepares them for their role as teachers/partners.
The Morse Fellowship Program
The Morse Fellowship Program brings Juilliard students-extensively trained as artist-educators-into public school classrooms on a weekly basis throughout the school year. Working as partners with the classroom teacher to mesh their musical explorations with the teacher's curriculum, the Juilliard students develop and present lessons that encourage young children to learn basic elements and understand musical concepts through projects, activities, concerts, and listening to a wide range of classical works.
The Instrumental Music Program
The Instrumental Music Program offers introductory instruction on a variety of string, wind, and brass instruments to public school fourth- and fifth-graders, in small groups, on a weekly basis throughout the year. The Juilliard students work closely with faculty mentors as part of the outreach training. The children are provided with an instrument and music materials, and they are expected to perform in an ensemble concert at the end of the year.
Shakespeare for Schools
Shakespeare for Schools, developed in collaboration with Lincoln Center Theater, brings students at area middle schools to Juilliard annually for a performance of a Shakespeare play. Lincoln Center Theater works with the school teachers to integrate the play's text and study material into the school's curriculum. Each May, the participating high school students attend one of six Juilliard performances of the selected play, featuring third-year Drama Division undergraduates. Afterwards, visitors mingle with the actors to discuss the work.
Dance Performance Program for High Schools
The Dance Performance Program provides the opportunity for students at six New York City public high schools to watch a dance performance of outstanding quality. In May and June, a troupe of six to eight dancers presents a varied, energetic program, which includes compositions by Juilliard choreographers, at each of the participating schools. Each presentation concludes with a lively question-and-answer session.
