Expanding Musical Horizons: East Hartford Schools Partner with the HSO for Music Education

Professional Development with East Hartford Music Teachers

This month, the Hartford Symphony Orchestra (HSO) took another step in expanding its outreach by partnering with East Hartford schools through its Link Up program. This initiative, developed by Carnegie Hall, offers students the opportunity to learn the recorder and play alongside the HSO in a collaborative concert. East Hartford will now join the Hartford public schools for this exciting event, which is set to take place in March.

Jen Phipps and Andy Robbin led a professional development session with East Hartford music teachers, focusing on ways to support students and educators in preparing for the concert. The session included a deep dive into programming, classroom strategies, and discussions on the profound importance of music education.

We’re excited to expand our efforts and welcome East Hartford schools. Together, we’re spreading music across the greater Hartford area.

Clayton Stephenson’s Residency with East Hartford Schools

On Thursday, September 19, Artist-in-Residence Clayton Stephenson made a significant impact during his visit to East Hartford schools. Hosted by East Hartford Middle and High Schools, Clayton spent the day inspiring students with his piano performances and sharing valuable lessons about emotional expression in music.

The day began with the 7th and 8th-grade choir and orchestra at East Hartford Middle School, followed by a session with East Hartford High School’s choir and orchestra. Clayton dazzled students with renditions of George Gershwin’s “Summertime” and Hiromi Uehara’s “Tom and Jerry Show.” His message to the students was clear: music is not just about technique, but about expressing emotions through your instrument.

In addition to performing, Clayton held a piano masterclass at East Hartford High School, offering individualized instruction and advice to aspiring young musicians. The event even attracted the attention of East Hartford Mayor Connor Martin, who joined in to witness the magic.

This unforgettable experience was made possible through the support of the Roberts Foundation, which underwrites the Joyce C. Willis Artist-in-Residence program. One enthusiastic student summed it up perfectly: “It was crazy good.”

Clayton’s First Visit to Hartford: Ana Grace Academy of the Arts

Before visiting East Hartford, Clayton Stephenson made his debut as HSO’s Artist-in-Residence on Wednesday, September 18, at the Ana Grace Academy of the Arts Magnet School. Here, he worked with students from grades 3, 4, and 5, engaging them in an interactive exploration of music.

With the guidance of their teachers, Mrs. Knapp and Mrs. Lucian, students experimented with minor and major keys, learning how these variations influence the emotion of a piece. The students played portions of Mozart’s Turkish March alongside Clayton, who encouraged them to play pieces they truly love and find interesting.

The day concluded with Clayton meeting the HSO Board, where he shared stories of his experiences and performed a spellbinding rendition of Gershwin’s “Summertime.” The Roberts Foundation, once again, made this impactful day possible through their continued support of the Artist-in-Residence program.

HSO is proud to continue building partnerships that enrich students’ lives through music, fostering an appreciation for the arts across the Hartford community.