Our residency program has been and is a very important part of our commitment to the youth of all of our Verde Valley communities. All of the schools and music teachers are very enthusiastic about promoting our residency program. These school programs have been in existence for over ten years. This has not only been a chance for many students to hear, see and learn about the performing arts, whether it be dance, piano, instruments or voice, but it gives the performers a chance to show the students how performers present their programs, and it gives the audience a chance to participate.

This year we plan at least two different school residency programs. The first will take place in November with Side Street Strutters. In March we will be doing a triple residency program or master class with Celtic Spring. We are especially proud of this program because it gives the students the opportunity to hear and see many facets of the performing arts. In many cases students are exposed to music they would not otherwise have the opportunity to hear. We are also working on bringing local artists of diverse cultural backgrounds into the schools. This going to be an exciting year!

Sponsors are needed to continue the funding of these educational programs. If you can help us by providing a sponsorship for a residency program, you will be recognized on sponsorship signs at the entrance to our concerts and in our concert programs. Please send your tax-deductible donation to the VVCA office at PO Box 26, Cottonwood, AZ 86326.

The Verde Valley Concert Association also works with the Boys and Girls Clubs within the area, providing student tickets to concerts, and give tickets to the clients of Yes, The Arc.