Music Comes Alive for Students at Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) - Hundreds of students experienced live orchestral music at the Lobero Theatre through a partnership between the Music Academy of the West and United Way of Santa Barbara County.

The interactive program introduced young audiences to live performance before giving them the chance to explore instruments up close.

“For these students, music comes to life in a whole new way.”

The Music Academy of the West welcomed children from local schools for the hands-on experience.

“It’s a fun experience to introduce young people to music through this program, which is specifically guided and meant for young kids,” said President and CEO Shauna Quill of the Music Academy of the West.

“I’m excited because I like to listen to music,” one student said.

“I’ve been able to play the instruments outside. I’ve been able to play the trombone, the trumpet,” said Aliso Elementary student Aria Leilani-Rainbolt.

One of the highlights was the opportunity for students to try instruments themselves.

“I played trombone and the trumpet,” one child said.

“I like when we went out there and played and did the music,” another student added.

Students explored instrument stations, discovering how each one looks, feels and sounds.

“It’s fun. I like all the instru… me… I forgot,” Franklin Elementary student Antonio Mora said with a laugh.

“I love the joy you see when they’re cheering,” Quill said.

“The students get exposed to things in their community and activities where they can learn about the arts and music,” said Steve Ortiz of United Way of Santa Barbara County.

Organizers hope experiences like this spark curiosity and inspire a lifelong love of music.

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