June 11, 2012
Festival brings Klassics for Kids to Du Quoin
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- A Southern Illinois Music Festival version of the popular Southern Illinois University Carbondale Klassics for Kids music performances for very young listeners comes to Du Quoin.
The free performance is set for 10 a.m. on June 19 at the Du Quoin Middle School.
Professor Edward Benyas, also artistic director of the festival and orchestra conductor, and his wife, piano soloist Kara Benyas, initially organized Klassics for Kids several years ago as community outreach for the SIU Carbondale School of Music.
The concerts provide an informal setting for pre-school aged children to learn listening skills and as an introduction to classical music. The interactive nature of these performances educates children about musical instruments, and encourages them to approach classical music fearlessly, without the pre-conceptions adults sometimes have.
Many area daycares and preschools use the educational opportunity Klassics for Kids provides. Large groups are welcome at this performance as well.
For a full schedule of Southern Illinois Music Festival events, artist biographies and driving directions to other venues, visit the website at www.sifest.com.