April 2017 Newsletter: Lomond El Sistema Orchestra

After a busy day at school, the last thing most elementary students want is more instruction. Yet, three days a week, a diverse group of 46 Lomond students happily gathers to participate in El Sistema Orchestra—with many more clamoring to join in. The local chapter of this renowned national program provides string instruction and performance opportunities for students in grades 2-4.

Now in its second year, the program expanded from 30 to 46 slots to accommodate growing demand. The Shaker Schools Foundation provides the instruments at no cost, and families pay a modest annual tuition with scholarship assistance available to ensure the program is affordable to all.

Lomond parent Kimberly Lauritsen, a violinist and vocalist who teaches at the Music Settlement, launched the program last year with the help of music teacher Cynthia Steiner. Based on Lomond's success, Fernway now also offers an El Sistema program under the direction of Shaker music teachers Kara James and Miranda Hervey. You can hear the combined El Sistema orchestras in concert on May 31 at the Middle School at 6 p.m.

Says Steiner, "The kids love being a part of this group and they are so proud of what they can do. There is a lot of research that shows the benefits of a program like this. Learning an instrument increases your brain power, organization and discipline."

The Lomond El Sistema Orchestra, which consists of 40 violins and 6 cellos, has performed at the State of the Schools address, a Board of Education meeting, and numerous school events. They have also enjoyed playing alongside students at the High School and from the Cleveland Institute of Music.