A unique in-school educational program targeted to middle and high school bands and orchestras, SCORE emphasizes the role that music education plays in encouraging academic achievement.
The SCORE program offers extensive master classes, individual sectional instruction, and "side-by-side" rehearsals.

In-school educators work closely with the FSO SCORE Conductors to design clinics aimed at addressing the challenges of each individual school's performing organizations.  Particular attention has been paid to adding activities in schools with populations who are not afforded individual music instruction.  In 2004, the FSO added a second SCORE artist/teacher whose experience affords additional focus on orchestra string sections.

Specifically, SCORE strives to: • Enhance student attitude toward symphonic music • Increase the retention rate of students participating in school instrumental programs • Develop critical-thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills • Foster creativity, cooperation and an understanding of musical diversity and quality • Contribute to interdisciplinary thinking

Of course, in addition to the benefits to students served by SCORE, the program has an impact on the teachers and conductors whose organizations participate. The clinics provide a foundation for the teacher to accelerate his or her performance group's musical growth, to inspire students to achieve a higher level of musicality, and to strive to achieve the quality of performance that they experience during this live, personal engagement.

Participation in the SCORE clinics supports achievement of a multitude of the Virginia Music Standards of Learning. In addition, participating schools can coordinate side-by-side concert performances.  In 2004, SCORE presented "Peter & the Wolf" with FSO Wind players and the Centreville High School Orchestra.  In 2006, SCORE presented Schubert's "Unfinished" Symphony and Dvorak's "New World" Symphony with FSO players alongside the Oakton High School Orchestra.

What participants are saying about SCORE ...

"This clinic has been one of the highlights of the year for my students ... The experience of playing with professional musicians has been unsurpassed by any other performance or rehearsal activity to date.  This program is the most worthwhile and well-run outreach programs I have ever encountered."
- Bryan Baldwin, Director of Bands, George C. Marshall High School

"I am writing to express to you how much I enjoyed the quintet visit ... It was such a good experience for the kids to be playing amongst such fine musicians.  They really picked up on certain techniques, bowings and overall feelings of the pieces much quicker once they heard sections performed live with all parts covered.  The SCORE program is a gem.  I am hoping that more teachers will take advantage of this ... the quality of our programs can do nothing but get stronger."
- Latoya Slocumb, Director of Orchestras, South County High School

"I just wanted to say how much the kids and I enjoyed you coming out and working with us yesterday!  They were so excited and we reviewed today what you had worked on ... Looking forward to seeing you again!"
- Cheryl Cooley, Director of Orchestras, Liberty Middle School, Centreville High School

For participating teachers: Download a SCORE Evalutation Form here.

For more information, please contact FSO Education Director, .