Structured Learning at Voices of Variety
VOV Explorers is a facilitated, 55-minute, on-grounds program for school groups. Each program focuses on inquiry-based music investigations aligned with the work of VOV scientists. The field trips are appropriate for students at the preK–eighth grade levels.
Each program is facilitated by a trained VOV educator with the support of the classroom teacher and accompanying chaperones. During explorations, students complete data sheets that help them carefully observe music. Hands-on investigation of specimens and objects are also part of the experience.
Explorations are linked to the Illinois State Learning Standards, Next Generation Science Standards and the Common Core Standards.
VOV Explorers donations
Off-Season Programs (September–March): donation $20
Busy Season Programs (April–June): donation $40
Please note that VOV Explorers cancellations made with less than 48 hours notice are subject to a cancellation fee.
VOV Explorers Scholarships
Voices of Variety is proud to offer program and transportation scholarships for VOV Explorers, courtesy of EveryBody Help SomeBody Foundation.
These scholarships provide Chicago & its select Surrounding suburbs-based classes with the opportunity to participate in a VOV Explorers program at Voices of Variety facility, with bus transportation provided. Voices of Variety will supply recipients with two buses and free VOV Explorers programs for all classes that attend (up to three programs/day).
You must be able to complete your program by March 31 to be considered. Scholarship recipients will be notified by phone and email.
Scholarships are limited, and submitting a scholarship application does not guarantee receipt of a scholarship. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all scholarships have been distributed. Voices of Variety awards scholarships based on the application essay and needs of students. For more information, contact info@voicesofvariety.org or (800.537.1177
Making the Most of Your Field Trip
As you prepare for your visit, we encourage you to visit our Plan a Field Trip page. A few easy steps will help you make the most of trip to Voices of Variety!
VOV Explorers Programs
VOV Explorers program! Are well suited for students from pre-K to eighth grade. The recommended grade level is listed next to each program. However, if you think a different program may be better suited to your students you can consult with the program’s facilitator to talk about your options. The facilitator may be reached at info@voicesofvariety.org or by phone at (800) 537.1177
Instrument/ music Identification
Recommended for grade level: PreK
Can you find a meerkat? What about a red-footed tortoise? In this program, little ones are encouraged to focus on descriptive elements such as size, color and movement to identify different species in one of Voices of Variety’s most diverse buildings. Using critical thinking and motor skills, students will identify a variety of music as they hold and flip through specialized early childhood rhymes!
Making Observations
Recommended for grade level: Kindergarten
From piano and strings to voice and rhythm, students learn that Voices of Variety teaches lots of good info on a variety of topics. Students explore a. With careful observations, they will identify similarities and differences in how different instruments look and what they do.
Music Classification
Recommended for grade level: First Grade
Furry or scaly, feathered or slimy—there are plenty of instruments to explore! Students will learn how instruments are classified and discover how they can be sorted into groups based on how they look and or sound. After observing similarities and differences between instruments, students will classify many different ones at the vov sound studio.
Music Habitats
Recommended for grade level: Second Grade
Whether it’s in the studio or outside, there’s no place like VOV. Students discover how instruments are specially adapted for each unique application. As students explore they’ll learn what certain instruments have in common as well as how they differ.
People Working Together
Recommended for grade level: Fourth Grade
Why do some prefer to play alone while others play in a group? As students explore, they will learn the difference between solitary playing and those that prefer to perform alone and social people that prefer to live in groups. As students observe different types of ways to work together, they will record discoveries and draw conclusions based on what they saw.
Program Partners
EveryBody Help Somebody LLC
For more information about a VOV Explorers program, email info@voicesofvariety.org or call (800.537.1177)