Annapolis Symphony Orchestra to Hit to Road with Music Van, 5/12

(ANNAPOLIS, MD - May 12, 2015) Beginning today the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra's Music Van will be on the road to provide musical instrument demonstrations for second and third graders at 14 elementary schools in Anne Arundel County. The Music Van is an essential part of the ASO's Education and Outreach program that starts with Education Concerts for second graders and continues with Adopt-A-School for upper elementary, middle and high school music students.

Music study enhances teamwork and discipline, while teaching skills that are necessary in the workplace. Recent studies show that students who study music are more successful on standardized tests such as the SAT, achieve higher grades in high school and are more likely to go to college. Early musical training helps develop brain areas involved in language and reasoning while providing a means of self-expression. Recognizing the significant benefits of musical instruction, the Bank of America Foundation provided funding for the ASO's Music Van in 2015.

The ASO's Music Van program is specifically designed to stimulate interest and participation in music study. Teams of four professional musicians from the orchestra will offer a hands-on experience with string, woodwind and brass instruments. They will also encourage the young students to take music lessons on the instrument of their choice when the school term begins in the fall of 2015. Instruction on string instruments is available in the third grade and students can learn to play woodwind and brass instruments beginning in fourth grade.

ASO musicians participating in the Music Van program this year include violinists Nikita Borisevich, Karin Kelleher, Nicholas Montopoli, Abby Oliver and Rachael Stockton; cellists Yoni Draiblate, Alison Bazala Kim and Dan Shomper; flutist Kimberly Valerio; and Tony Valerio French horn. ASO Orchestra Manager Marshall Mentz coordinates the Music Van program, involving a cadre volunteers in the school visits.

ASO Music Van 2015 school visit schedule:
Tuesday May 12 Cape St. Claire Elementary	Thursday May 21 Aleph Bet Jewish Day School
Wednesday May 13 St. John the Evangelist	Friday May 22 Sunset Elementary
Thursday May 14 Chesapeake Montessori School	Wednesday May 27 Tracey's Elementary
Friday May 15 Glendale Elementary	Monday June 1 Benfield Elementary
Monday May 18 Annapolis Area Christian School	Tuesday June 2 Crofton Meadows Elementary
Tuesday May 19 St. Martin's Lutheran	Wednesday June 3 St. Mary's Elementary
Thursday May 21 Brooklyn Park Elementary	Thursday June 4 Deale Elementary

About the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra

Now in its 53rd season, the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra is led by renowned Music Director José-Luis Novo and features 70 professional musicians who perform a variety of symphonic concerts for audiences of all ages. Additionally, the non-profit organization provides educational programs through its partnerships with local schools, as well as various other community outreach efforts. The ASO's vision is to be the best regional orchestra in the country and recognized as a jewel in the Washington/Baltimore area.

About Bank of America Foundation

As part of its effort to improve the financial lives of individuals and families across the country, Bank of America is lending, investing and giving. Bank of America addresses immediate needs vital to the health of the communities they serve through a focus on preserving neighborhoods, educating the workforce for 21st century jobs and addressing basic human services, such as hunger. In order to create longer term solutions, Bank of America supports services and programs that enhance financial stability and create better money habits. By connecting nonprofits and communities to much-needed resources, Bank of America helps create a better economic future for all.

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