Unable to partake of the wine and cheese in the next room, the students gather around bowls of chips and candy during intermission to discuss the performance and socialize. For many, the Junior Intermezzo program opens a whole world of new opportunities and experiences. April Sprinkle, a student at Burke High School's Ninth-Grade Academy, said the program has exposed her to different kinds of music. Participating students attend performances for free, but they are asked to devote some time to discussing and critiquing performances. About 100 students from Wando, West Ashley and Burke high schools participate, as do some private school students.
Students volunteer to be in the club.
He said it is very important that students are prepared ahead of time for the five performances they attend. For that reason, Jeannie King goes into the schools the week before a performance. This is King's third year as director of education for the Charleston Concert Association. During class time, King talks with the students about the upcoming performances. She started by reviewing the history of ballet and asking the students what they knew about the dance form.