Inspiration | Learning Orchestra at School

What is the Netherlands Learning Orchestra?

The Learning Orchestra is a musical and social project. A Learning Orchestra at school or in the neighbourhood gives children the opportunity to develop fully.

Why a Learning Orchestra?
The Learning Orchestra not only teaches children to play together but also to live together. Learning together to give meaning to life in a valuable way. That is the fundamental principle of the Learning Orchestra. After more than fifteen years of experience and the necessary scientific research, it is clear that it can really make a difference in this area. This knowledge needs to be shared nationwide. If only because the Learning Orchestra may well have the answer to the complicated question of how the teaching of 21st century skills should take shape, at school and in extracurricular activities.

Every Child Plays in the Learning Orchestra at School

With a Learning Orchestra at school, the children receive music lessons every week, during school hours, from (professional) music teachers on an instrument of their choice. The children then learn to play together in their ‘own’ Learning Orchestra, led by a conductor, and work towards great performances.

According to the curriculum of the Learning Orchestra, primary school pupils from groups 5 to 8 receive one hour of music lessons every week from professional music teachers, at school, during school hours. They practice in small groups on their instrument. From the beginning, there is a lot of attention for playing together and forming groups.

After a few months, the pupils already have their first big orchestra rehearsal. They then form a symphony orchestra led by a professional conductor. Around Christmas and before the summer, the children give a concert for their parents, fellow pupils or local residents. For larger performances, the pupils from several schools play together.

Visit the Learning Orchestra website for more information.