Engaging with Classical music is an essential part of the education process for young people and it has been proven that studying music from an early age enhances the way the brain develops. An award-winning educator, Franz works tirelessly in communities across North America to create an environment for young people to connect with live music for their own development and enjoyment. His work has been recognized with The Raphael Fliegel Award for Visionary Leadership (Houston Symphony), The Leonard Bernstein Award (Louisville Orchestra and Buffalo Philharmonic), and the Windsor Endowment for the Arts Leadership Award. Throughout his career, Franz has championed work with audiences of all ages to develop a more intimate connection with the music in the “soundscape” of the listener. Introducing the world’s great orchestral masterpieces to audiences and training the next generation of musicians in various creative ways are how he shares the passion he possesses for connecting people through music.
As a mentor, he is devoted to developing the talents of up-and-coming conductors. Whether through his conducting workshops, such as The Art of the Conductor, or leading a workshop with the Windsor Symphony Orchestra that focuses on the skills required to create and present effective education concerts, Franz has demonstrated a keen awareness of how to help these conductors develop and progress to the next level. This love of teaching is demonstrated with young musicians as well. In 2017, along with colleague Jennifer Drake, Franz founded the Idaho Orchestra Institute. Focused on developing the complete artist, this camp takes young musicians on an exploration of major orchestral repertoire while developing a deeper connection with their core artist.
Franz shares his love and connection to music on multiple platforms: his Read Aloud series, his blog, his series ask Robert and finally through his TEDx Talk entitled Active Listening and Our Perception of Time. The art of active listening is key for audiences to feel engaged in the concert hall. Through a clear four step process, all are welcome listening to a live performance.
“Robert’s ideas about music education and education in general are marked by genius. One seldom finds an artist that is able to organize and execute his dreams. That ability truly sets Robert apart.”
- JANE PFEFFERKORN, FORMER PROGRAM MANAGER OF THE ARTS WINSTON-SALEM/FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS
