Dear Friends of the Symphony,
As the CSO prepares for the upcoming concerts in our ninth year of existence, I have been reflecting on what we have accomplished and why I continue to be excited about and dedicated to the mission of the CSO. I love beautiful music. Our 4th of July concert on the campus of the Carrollton City Schools was a rousing success and marked our 35th performance in the West Georgia area. I am amazed that a community the size of ours has our own professional symphony orchestra! I’m proud that the business community can include the CSO in an impressive list of wonderful things this community has to offer.
I believe it is important that we do all we can to KEEP THE ARTS ALIVE for our children. In the last 8-plus years our Music Education Outreach programs have fulfilled our mission to do just that. Our Discover Music Concert Series provides the opportunity for students to enjoy a CSO concert during the school day. Prior to the concert, teachers are provided with materials about the composers and program notes on the music. Since 2003 the CSO has performed for over 6500 students.
Our Young Composers’ Competition gives winning students in grades K-12 the opportunity to compose a piano piece, take orchestration lessons, and experience the thrill of having their pieces performed by the CSO. Since 2004 the CSO has received 56 compositions from students, 26 of which have been performed by the CSO. Our CSO Teacher Resource Program offers teachers in the Carrollton City, Carroll County, Oak Mountain, Haralson County and Bremen School Systems, free of charge, recordings, scores, composer information, videos, DVDs, curriculum planning consultation and programs in the schools to facilitate their work in the classroom. This program impacts over 24,000 students in 50 schools. This fall the CSO is partnering with UWG to implement Destination University, a unique program to inspire children through the arts and sciences to develop a love for learning and to broaden their world and vision of the future. This program will reach 50 students each year. Such a significant cultural program requires significant community support. With a budget of $30,000 to $40,000 per concert our success depends on your generous contributions.
Please join us as we continue to offer such a wonderful cultural experience for the West Georgia Area. Renew your membership in our Symphony Guild, or join us for the first time, to keep the music playing and to Keep the Arts Alive for our children.
Sincerely,
Patti Pitts, Chairman
CSO Board of Directors