Just for Kids
A critical part of the mission of The Gilmore is to provide piano education programs for children that not only develop basic keyboard skills, but foster a lifelong appreciation of music. It is our fundamental belief that students who participate in the arts learn the value of creativity, teamwork and self-expression. Programs offered to kids in grades K-5 include the following:
2012 Gilmore for Kids
This exceptional program occurs every two years in conjunction with our biennial Keyboard Festival. Uniquely designed for children in grades K-5, Gilmore for Kids programs present piano music in a fun and engaging way. And, through the generous support of our sponsors, the programs are free and open to the public.
PIANIMAL!
Featuring 2004 Gilmore Young Artist Elizabeth Schumann and Sonya Schumann
The piano is an animal. It has the roar of a tiger, the sweet melodies of the song bird, and all that is in between. Enjoy an evening with sisters Elizabeth and Sonya Schumann as they take us on a musical safari to spot the wild Pianimal in its most natural habitat—the concert hall. Gilmore for Kids is a program designed for children in grades K-5, though any age will be able to rekindle their inner child. This program will develop a new love for classical music in an exciting and interactive evening of live recitation, music and projections.
All of the following Gilmore for Kids programs will be held at 7 PM with the exception of April 20 at Coit Academy which will be held at 2 PM.
| April 18 | Comstock Community Auditorium, Comstock |
| April 20 | Coit Fine Arts Academy, Grand Rapids |
| April 23 | Allegan Performing Arts Center, Allegan |
| April 24 | Vicksburg Performing Arts Center, Vicksburg |
| April 25 | Wellspring Theater, Kalamazoo |
| April 26 | Wellspring Theater, Kalamazoo |
| April 27 | Harper Creek High School Auditorium, Battle Creek |
Piano Labs
Located on-site at area elementary schools, Gilmore Piano Labs are fully-equipped, state-of-the-art computer/keyboard labs that reach hundreds of students who would not otherwise have the opportunity to learn to play the instrument. The Gilmore employs piano teachers who work with children during their regular school day. Special after school labs are offered for additional enrichment.
KeysFest
The Gilmore KeysFest is an annual, day-long festival for piano students in the greater Battle Creek and Kalamazoo areas. Piano students of all levels, grades 1–12, are invited to perform and receive instruction from professional pianists and/or educators. Students receive immediate affirmation of their skills and musicianship in an open and friendly master class environment, including a small audience of supportive students and adults.
KeysFest Information Sheet (348K PDF)
KeysFest Application Form (102K PDF)
Gilmore Day Piano Camp
Our annual week-long camp held at Sherman Lake YMCA Camp is designed for students with at least two years of piano instruction. Taught by music educators, the camp offers an integrated curriculum along with traditional camp activities that include art, drama, and water sports.