The Mozart Classical Orchestra feels strongly that knowing and practicing music is fundamental to the healthy development of human minds and spirits, and that everyone deserves access to the rich education and understanding that music provides. Recent studies, including those conducted by UCI researcher Gordon Shaw, have presented impressive evidence that music programs in the schools actually improve performance in other subject areas, including reading readiness and math proficiency. It contributes to critical thinking skills, creativity, flexibility, imagination, intuition, self-esteem, self-discipline, and the development of both independence and collaboration. It is a language that all students speak-one that cuts across racial, cultural, social, educational, and economic barriers, and enhances cultural appreciation and awareness. As an artistically outstanding and accessible community resource, the MCO offers two distinctive introductions to classical music as a source of extended learning for audiences of all ages.