Winter 2024

SHORT CUTS GIVING BACK (r Carl ChrMstensen conHuctMnK a 1ontere] Count] 4oTs concert 8he nonTrofit FrMnKs music to youth throughout the county through concerts and educational programs. D r. Carl Christensen, music director and conductor of Monterey County Pops!, e\plains the nonprofit’s work simply Making a difference through music. “Making a difference” means many things for this multifaceted organi^ation. )ach year, the Monterey County Pops! orchestra presents free community concerts featuring paid professional musicians. The 2024 schedule included a Labor Day performance at Seaside City Hall, plus other events which are tied to maNor holidays. Monterey County Pops! recently introduced concerts at area senior facilities. Its musicians per- form “4eter and the Wolf” at elementary schools. %nd through its high school residencies, profession - al musicians work with students in bands, choirs and baile folklorico dance programs. 8he students and musicians then share the stage for concerts. “The students play, their families are there, and it brings everybody together,” 'hristensen says. “&ut it also shows students a path to being involved with music°to appreciate it, to con - sume it, to play professionally, maybe.” 8he programs provide connections and opportunities for underserved students. Some might grow up to be hometown music teachers or stay involved in other ways. “-’ve had kids contact me later and say, ³How do - get into Monterey 'ounty 4ops #’ 8hey learn that music is not Nust a fun high school class. -t’s something that really can open a whole new world,” 'hristensen says. For more information, call 831/484-5511 or visit www.montereycountypops.org . Monterey County 4ops &r ings Music to 2ew %udiences & = 6 )2) ) & 6 - 2'/ 7 88 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 Photo: Randy Tunnell