« Orchestre à l’école, it’s a program that transforms classrooms into orchestras all over France, in elementary and middle schools », explains Marianne Blayau. For three years, students benefit from two hours of musical practice per week with an instrument. The program relies on a partnership between the school, a music school, a local community, and a local luthier.
Originally, the project addressed the lack of instrumental practice in France. However, early results quickly showed that the benefits far exceeded just learning music.
The program helps to remove several barriers to accessing music, whether they are economic, cultural, or geographical. « Instrumental practice means buying a musical instrument and paying for a music school. So it’s not affordable for everyone », she explains.
« We tell all these children: “you will all succeed” », asserts Marianne Blayau. In the orchestra, everyone has a role to play, and success depends on the collective.
« It changes attitudes within the classroom. It also changes attitudes towards adults », explains Marianne Blayau. Concentration, self-confidence, autonomy, and cooperation are among the skills developed.
« Basically, it leads to more academic success, but above all, more success in life, and more self-confidence for the children », concludes Marianne Blayau.
