Stories and Music

Stories & Music, a flagship program of Fischoff’s Arts-in-Education residency, reinforces the importance of reading through the power of music. Stories & Music allows early readers to experience books transformed with flair and imagination by nationally-recognized musicians, all of whom are Fischoff Competition alumni. The program integrates music with literacy, storytelling and drama. Musicians perform in costume, and instruments and melodies represent characters, themes, and moods from the story.

Programs are offered in school settings, with a special focus on 2nd grade classrooms. Classroom teachers receive a free copy of the featured book in advance of the program along with standards-based companion activities aligned with classroom curriculum. Additionally, every student attending Stories & Music receives their own free copy to add to their personal library and share with their families.

Stories & Music is also offered in a partnership with the St. Joseph County Public Library. This annual, free community performance is open to the public and paired with hands-on activities in the Ballroom and an opportunity to meet the musicians.