School Presentations
Citywinds have been performing young people's concerts since 1992 when the group was chosen to participate in the San Francisco Symphony's Adventures in Music program. In addition to performing for all the fourth and fifth graders in San Francisco, Citywinds have brought their educational concerts to schools throughout the Bay Area, and are available for educational performances, coachings, clinics and residencies. They have developed and performed several young people's concerts with varying themes appropriate and adaptable for grades one through nine. Citywinds incorporate both education and entertainment in their concerts, inviting participation and questions from the audience.
Introducing the Woodwind Quintet
Citywinds introduce the five instruments of the Woodwind Quintet and describe how each instrument produces its particular sound. The basic musical ingredients (melody, harmony, rhythm and bass) are defined and explored.
The Language of Music
Citywinds draw parallels between grammatical and musical compositions. Different aspects of language are discussed, including voice inflection, gesture, body language, sign language and the written word. The works performed demonstrate and explore the capacity of music to communicate emotions.
A Musical Time Travel
Citywinds take the audience through the six main time periods of music, including the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Impressionistic and Contemporary. Historical events and interesting characteristics of the time and its music are discussed. Emphasis is placed on music as a representative of the time and culture in which it was written. The contemporary idea of "any sound can be music" is used to encourage students to create their own piece of music.
Science and Music
Citywinds describe the scientific aspects of sound, drawing parallels between the work of musicians and that of laboratory technicians. Concepts presented include sound waves, vibration, pitch, extended techniques, and teamwork. The works performed demonstrate aspects of pitch, unusual sounds, and blending of sound, as well as the importance of working as a unit.
