Hello,
If you're reading this, you are likely interested in hiring me as a visiting artist to your school. Good news! I'm a professional and I have 20+ years of experience as a visiting artist in schools. I've also done performances at the Library Of Congress and The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
At a glance:
Patrick Ross Visiting Artist: $1,250 + $1 per mile from and back to Newbury, VT.
- 45min assembly concert with a Q&A session at the end.
- The day rate includes upto three three 30min. instrumental recess sessions.
- Instrumental Recess is a guided, hands-on session with upto 20 kids at a time. It's a chance for kids to try instruments, in many cases for the first time. The list of instruments includes a drum kit, cello, banjo, mandolin, ukulele, acoustic guitars, electric guitars, multiple violins, a keyboard and other various percussion instruments.
I remember being in 4th grade when an American Revolution reenactor came to my elementary school in Canaan, Vt. He played the dulcimer. He played a music selection that I recognized and invited me to join him with my fiddle. From that moment on, I knew that I wanted to be a performer and share unique musical experiences in an educational setting.
Because I am a fifth generation Vermont born, fiddle player, I started with traditional New England fiddle music as a young boy and have branched out to more modern styles of music to offer a well rounded presentation that kids can relate to. Traditional New England fiddle music is a cultural and educational treasure with a geographical relevance that enriches the lives of students. It provides a lens through which students can explore the history, geography, and sociology of their region while nurturing a lasting appreciation for the rich tapestry of New England heritage.
Nurturing creativity, self-expression and cultural awareness fosters critical thinking, enhances communication skill, promotes innovation, preserves cultural heritage, encourages individuality and much more. Those are some of the key concepts that are woven into my assembly presentation.
I remember what it was like to be part of assemblies when I was in school. In many cases, they were some of the most boring and eye-rolling experiences. Because of that, I take a more whimsical, light hearted, almost comical approach that leaves the students on the edge of their seats, never knowing what might happen next. Examples include various kinds of "trick" fiddling. Behind the back, over the head, under the leg. I even bust out a power tool (reciprocating saw) that I play the fiddle with.
It is common for students to be inspired to follow through with their own vision or dream of learning to play an instrument because of my presentation. Many have come up to me afterward and asked me to teach them. I have a fiddle student who recently graduated from Oberlin College with a music degree. We met after an assembly at Oxbow School in Bradford, VT in 2014. She has since toured the world as a cultural ambassador of New England music.
I am committed to fostering a deep appreciation for cultural art, music and creativity among students. My collaborations include the work I do with Music Helps Inc. Music Helps is a non-profit organization with the mission statement, "Facilitating access to music for all." For more information about how music helps please visit www.musichelp.us
If you would like to learn more about me as an artist and music specialist please visit www.patrickrossmusic.com
Sincerely,
-Patrick Ross
patrickrossmusic.com
P.O. 225
Newbury, VT
05051
802-866-3324
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