The mission of Monterey County Pops! is to connect, engage and inspire the youth and families in Monterey County through exceptional performances and educational programs – featuring pops and patriotic music presented by our professional orchestra free of charge -- in accessible venues in every district of our county and in close collaboration with civic leaders, cultural groups and school partners.
We will extend our reach by adding four schools in Salinas Valley (North County, South County and East Salinas) for a total of 8 schools (16 programs). We will deepen impact by increasing family engagement and community engagement and implementing a musical instrument drive. Music Director Dr. Carl Christensen customizes our programs with the High School Band Leader or Music Teacher – ensuring the evening concert features the students and appeals to the families. During the afternoon, Pops! musician/educators help students refine their techniques and musical fluency. That evening, Dr. Christensen conducts the orchestra with students performing side-by-side their mentors. All clinics and concerts are free. The public is always invited! Each concert includes our full orchestra performing light classics, marches, movie music and traditional music. Each concert includes pieces that are beloved by the community. (For example, in Greenfield, we include Chilenas from the Triqui culture of Oaxaca.)
As the principal music teacher for Greenfield High School, I have found for several years that Pops! music educators do an outstanding job giving clinics to the students on their primary instruments. This type of attention is much needed for these students. The Pops Conductor / Music Director Carl Christensen is very sensitive to our audience's needs - speaking mostly in Spanish. He selects music that caters to the taste of our population creating a bigger and bigger draw ever year. Over the past 4 years we have gone from 50 students participating to over 100 this year. A very important element is feeding the kids before the concert -- which the Pops also provide. This outreach is what the community and students need to continue for us to create a cohesive environment.
- Matt Huot
