ABOVE: Spec’s President/Owner and Houston Symphony Board President John Rydman and Houston Symphony Chief of Education & Community Engagement Pam Blaine presenting the Spec’s Charitable Foundation Educator Award to representatives from HISD’s Chavez Feeder Pattern. Each year, the Houston Symphony honors educators in the Salute to Educators concert. Educators who particularly stand out receive the … Continued
According to John Rydman, President of Spec’s Wine, Spirits and Finer Foods and current Houston Symphony Board President, his experience with music education led to his success in life and business. Rydman began piano lessons in third grade, began playing saxophone in middle school band, and taught band to younger students in high school and … Continued
While we often hear about how studying music improves students’ academic achievement, music education programs can also play an important role in building community. A strong music education program can establish a trusting and nurturing community of students and families who look out for one another during challenging times. Houston Symphony musicians see this frequently in their work with schools throughout Greater Houston, and we’d like to shine a light on the example set by Waltrip … Continued
This month, we are celebrating music educators in Houston and beyond for all they do to foster the love of music in their students. This year more than ever, teachers have had to overcome challenges to innovate and inspire students, and we’re proud to highlight their achievements during the Spec’s Charitable Foundation Salute to Educators concert on … Continued
Thirteen musicians, ranging in age from 13 through 18, competed in the Houston Symphony League Concerto Competition on January 4, 2014. These exceptionally talented students represented violin, viola, cello, piano, flute, clarinet and horn. Our three judges hailed from NYC, Boulder, CO and Boise, ID. These musicians performed an entire concerto by memory — a … Continued
2013 — a great year to begin playing an instrument! The sounds of an instrument being played for the first time may not exactly be beautiful, but in just a few years of studying music, the benefits truly last a lifetime. Here are a few articles we found that describe research showing the effects of … Continued