New York City: The Performing Arts

New York City has long been associated with the performing arts. Countless thousands have gone to NYC with big dreams of starring in a Broadway production, or dancing on the stage with a prestigious dance company. There are so many venues for the performing arts that it's not difficult to see how NYC gained this reputation. Taking a student group to see a performance is a great idea. The Lincoln Center is an amazing place to look for concert listings. Whether the group is interested in musical theater, ballet or classical music, the Lincoln Center is sure to have a performance to please. This building complex is located in Manhattan and spans approximately 16 acres. 12 different buildings contain concert halls that host performances of dance, jazz, classical music, chamber music, opera and more.

When the average student is asked about opera, their response is likely to be associated with screeching sopranos in old fashioned costume. This image may be due to seeing the "Kill the Wabbit" episode of the Bugs Bunny cartoon, but it is still an erroneous one. At the Metropolitan Opera ("the Met" for short), students will be captivated by the stunning performances given by some of the world's leading singers. Performances of classic operas, such as Don Giovanni, as well as modern operas are performed. Students will be challenged to experience something different, but many will be amazed at the capacity for song to capture a feeling or set a mood.

For classical music lovers, plan to see a concert performed by the New York Philharmonic. Older students can enjoy performances of symphonies and concertos performed by world renowned artists, while younger student groups can sit in on a concert series designed to teach children to listen to music. These series present music in a fun and imaginative way, and intersperse performances with creative stories. The Chamber Music Society is also a part of the Lincoln Center, and features famous chamber ensembles from across America playing classic and modern repertoire. If students are more interested in jazz, have no fear; the Lincoln Center also include a Jazz Center that features jazz ensembles, soloists and vocalists that perform popular jazz favorites.

Ballet and Theater can also be found in the Lincoln Center Complex. The Lincoln Center Theater hosts Broadway revivals, as well as off Broadway productions. Students will enjoy seeing their favorite musicals performed, and may have the chance to see some new musicals as well. The New York City Ballet is yet another venue for taking in a performance. Like the New York Philharmonic, the NYC Ballet offers performances that are tailored to younger audiences and make a great field trip for younger children.

The Julliard School and the School of American Ballet are also a part of the Lincoln Center, and often have smaller recitals and performances given by their students, so be sure and check the websites if one of these options is of interest. Music is an important part of any education, and as such it should be treated as a necessary part of a student tour. Seeing a show can be a great evening activity for a longer student tour, or a good destination for a day trip. Either way students will com away with an exciting experience to look back on.