Children in the Heartland had the opportunity to experience the symphony in a special way, along with a visit from royalty.
By Matt Buhrman
Saturday, November 14, 2009 at 10:23 p.m.
Read more: Local
OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Miss Iowa, Anne Michael Langguth of Iowa City, was a guest violinist at the "2009 Kids-Symphony" in Ottumwa's Bridge View Center on Saturday morning. Langguth, a 2009 Harvard grad who has played violin since the age of three, will compete to become Miss America in January.
The Southeast Iowa Symphony featured the sounds of the West...including Aaron Copland's infamous "Hoe-Down" from the ballet, Rodeo. Also performed Saturday was John Williams' theme from the 1972 film, The Cowboys, starring John Wayne.
Conductor Robert McConnell said that music inspires all ages.
"Well I think it's real clear that the more kids are stimulated to learn, the better they learn in every area, and particularly with music. This will be probably one of the few chances in their lives where they get to hear instrument demonstrations up close along with the music in such an informal and fun setting," McConnell said.
The symphony performed two additional "Kids-symphonies" on Saturday, in both Mount Pleasant and Burlington, Iowa.
