AT&T Donates $30,000 to Miami-Dade Public School Music Programs

The Young Patronesses of the Opera (YPO) organization is the proud recipient of a generous grant from AT&T to support their In School Opera program that reaches out to 30,000 school children each year. Now in its 39th season, the 2014 tour began in January and will run until early April performing "The Pied Piper of Hamelin" by Seymour Barab. This 30-minute production with full sets, costumes and live music tell the story through music and humor of the Piper who helps a town in need and teaches integrity. Each student receives a workbook created by YPO education committee members with poems, music, games and puzzles to help the students learn the story and music. Additionally, teachers receive a companion study guide using Florida's Sunshine Standards to enhance their student's critical thinking and evaluative skills.

"AT&T's generous donation has helped us showcase this genre of music to elementary school children in our community", says Julie Todaro, Producer. "Without the support of sponsors like AT&T, these children, many in title 1 schools, may never get a chance to learn about this art-form and experience live theater." It is estimated that 30,000 children in South Florida will see the performance of "The Pied Piper of Hamelin" this year. And, there is no cost to the schools for this performance.

YPO receives hundreds of thank you letters from the teachers, principals, and children each year who truly enjoy having an opportunity to see an opera. One teacher wrote: "Thank you for bringing the opera to our school. This opportunity for students is unmatched and we appreciate all you, your staff and cast do to make it possible."