Curriculum Classes
In Memory of Velma Simmons, Arts Educator
For high-school student groups, the Education Program has engineered humanities-based classes. Educators and student groups of all subjects are invited to attend any or all of the five 50-minute sessions, complete with a tour of the Kimmel Center. Taught by professional teaching artists, the classes are designed to stimulate student reativity with engaging and interactive lessons on American Culture. Students and teachers may select form a variety of lessons, which focus on music, dance, and theater arts. Classes are based on the National Arts Standards and teachers may request follow-up materials for continued learning.
Classes are offered Tuesday through Friday, twice a day at 10am and 12pm, and are intended for school groups (not individual instruction).
Classes and Programs incorporate the National Standards in the Arts: (Music, Dance, and Theater), American History, Geography, Social Studies and Language Arts.
Lessons in Music
The Kimmel Centers 10th anniversary celebrates the outstanding Legacy of Philadelphia musicians. Two classes are offered that pay tribute to the iconic and legendary Jazz and Rhythm and Blues artists that made Philadelphia their home.
The Jazz Heritage in Philadelphia
Students will experience through listening, singing and playing, the history and music of some of Philadelphia’s well-known jazz artists including Benny Golson, John Coltrane, Grover Washington Jr. and others. The class will also feature live music performed by local
Philadelphia jazz teaching artists and musicians.
The Sound of Philadelphia (TSOP)
The music of TSOP, created by Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff and Thom Bell is the theme of this fun-filled class which features music by The O’Jays, Stylistics, MFSB Orchestra and many other sensational recording artists of Philadelphia International Records. A guided tour of the studio store with memorabilia, and artifacts will be given after the class by a member of the recording studio staff. (Due to the limited availability of the studio, tours cannot be rescheduled for any
cancelled class).
American Musical Theater
Come and join us on the "Great White Way" known as Broadway American Musical Theater. Here students will experience this genre through all the key components of a musical, replete with singing, dancing and acting an excerpt of an established musical. They will also extend their creative talents by creating and performing an original scene. All presentations are videotaped for students and teachers to enjoy.
Harlem Renaissance
Explore the music, dance, visual art and literary works created during this time of cultural rebirth in Harlem, New York City. Come travel to a place where African-American artistic expression flourished, leaving its impact on society and the world. Sing and dance the Lindy Hop and experience one of America’s most celebrated artistic treasures.
