Project Impact

Musical instrument inventor Jody Kruskal uses homemade instruments as physical models for explaining the science of sound. 

Concepts of vibration, frequency, relative pitch, instrument classification, and rhythm are explained in simple language employing instrumental and vocal examples.

The audience is engaged and participates throughout the program, as they learn that wonderful music can come from found objects, such as paper towel tubes, soda straws and coffee cans. 

A wonderful example of the recycle/reduce/reuse concepts, as Jody encourages students to make their own instruments in the classroom and at home.

Grades K-12

Click here to view video of Science of Sound

Former Harlem Globetrotter, Derek “The Wizz” Murphy

Students’ heads spin almost as fast as Derek Murphy’s basketball in this fast-paced, entertaining Character Ed program. 

Using his skills and his Harlem Globetrotter’s fame as a springboard, Derek “The Wizz” Murphy slam-dunks his message about values, goals, respect, and the dangers of drug and alcohol use.

Audience participation is key in this program, as students learn basketball tricks and the spirit of cooperation and concentration, while listening to stories about making good choices, turning to respected adults to help with decision making, setting goals and working hard to achieve them. 

Derek encourages students to develop good study habits (preparation and practice bring results); stand up for what they believe is right (don’t be afraid of speaking out); respect one another (bullying hurts and the reasons why some people are bullies). The lessons students take away from this assembly will extend beyond their school years and into adulthood. 

Derek really connects with students and they enthusiastically respond to his questions and thrill to his antics. Through his efforts students are encouraged, motivated and inspired to make choices that are positive, constructive and drug free. His unique program has helped students all over the country to achieve their full potential.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW A VIDEO OF SLAM DUNK POSITIVE CHOICES

Grades PreK-8 (Program content and presentation is adapted to be age appropriate)
Great Family & Community Program Available

Also Available: Celebrity Basketball Games - A Great Fundraiser

An Upbeat, Contemporary View!

Our rock ‘n’ roll-turned opera soprano, Yvette Lewis, lays the foundation for an appreciation and understanding of opera, as the technical and artistic elements are examined in a fun-filled, easy-to-understand manner. 

Yvette incorporates operatic arias, storytelling and audience participation in this program. Students are intrigued as they act, sing, play instruments, and participate along with the artist to discover the joy of opera. Each component of So, This Is Opera! has been carefully crafted to enhance the operatic learning experience of students.

If opera immersion is desired, a residency program is available.

Grades K-6 & 7-12

April 2010: Yvette Lewis was appointed by President Obama to The Commission on Presidential Scholars

Click for So This Is Opera! Video