Bringing vocal music into the classroom
With Music Pathways, the IVC introduces children to vocal music and opera by taking it straight into the classrooms of primary schools.
Den Bosch
Where Music Pathways launched, with plans to grow across North Brabant
Tailor made
Workshops tailored to each age group and designed around current themes
IVC singers
Professional singers and pianists leading the sessions
About Music Pathways
Music Pathways is the International Vocal Competition's (IVC) music education programme for primary schools.
Through six interactive workshops, children discover music, singing and the performing arts. Guided by specially trained IVC singers and pianists, they work towards a final performance in which they take centre stage.
Why Music Pathways?
Research consistently shows that music education strengthens children's cognitive, emotional and social development while increasing their confidence, creativity and ability to collaborate - skills that are valuable not only at school, but throughout their lives.
Yet music education is under increasing pressure in many primary schools. Limited time, budgets and specialist expertise often make it difficult to give music a permanent place in the curriculum. Through Music Pathways, IVC aims to help change that.
How does it work?
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01Getting started
Together, we discuss the planning, the participating class(es) and the practical organisation of the programme.
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02Preparation
The school receives a teacher's guide and a Spotify playlist featuring the music used throughout the programme, allowing pupils to become familiar with the songs and themes in advance.
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03Six interactive lessons
Specially trained IVC singers and pianists lead six interactive lessons. Pupils sing, move, perform and collaborate as they work towards a shared final performance.
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04Final performance
During the seventh and final session, pupils present what they have learned in a festive performance for parents and carers.
Building the future together
Following a successful pilot in 's-Hertogenbosch, IVC aims to expand Music Pathways across North Brabant. Together with schools, businesses, funding partners and other organisations, IVC is investing in a new generation that experiences the connecting power of music.
What makes Music Pathways unique?
- A complete programme of six lessons culminating in a final performance
- Professional guidance from experienced IVC singers and pianists
- An engaging introduction to music, singing and the performing arts
- Pupils sing, act, conduct and create stage props together
- A practical teacher's guide and Spotify playlist to support the programme
- A strong focus on creativity, collaboration, confidence and self-expression
- For many children, a first introduction to classical singing and opera
Impact
The impact is visible from the very first lesson. Children who initially remain in the background gradually become more confident and take greater initiative. They find the courage to use their voices, work together and grow in self-confidence. During the final performance, they proudly take to the stage and demonstrate what they have achieved together.
Testimonials
IVC succeeded in taking our pupils on an impressive journey into a world that was completely new to them. Thanks to their accessible and highly professional approach, the opera story immediately resonated with the children. The final performance, with proud parents in the audience, clearly demonstrated how powerfully the arts and education can enrich one another. At Het Molenven Primary School, we believe in developing every child's talents and encouraging our pupils to become the very best version of themselves. We are therefore delighted to continue this valuable partnership with the IVC.
What a wonderful way to introduce children to opera. Every single child was enthusiastically involved and participated with great enjoyment. The parents also loved the performance and were amazed by what their children, together with the singers, were able to achieve in just a few weeks.
I thought Sam sang beautifully, and I really enjoyed making the drawings too. Next time, I'd love to see even more people singing so beautifully!
I really liked that you came to our school and sang so beautifully. You always come up with fun ideas, like the sock puppets and the dancing with the knights and the snakes.
I thought it was really cool that there were real opera singers!
Become a Partner
Help Inspire the Next Generation
At IVC, we believe that classical music belongs to everyone. By bringing professional classical singers, musicians, and theatre makers into primary schools, we make this rich musical tradition accessible, engaging, and relevant for today's children.
Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the power of music, creativity, and the performing arts. Rather than simply listening, children become active participants - singing, creating, performing, and discovering the power of their own voice.
Music has the power to inspire, connect, and build confidence. Yet for many children, live classical music remains out of reach. Through our projects, we open the door to a world they may never have imagined possible.
For many pupils, this is their very first encounter with live classical music - an experience that sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and creates memories that last a lifetime.
Together, we can ensure that every child has the chance to discover the beauty and power of classical music.
Invest in the Next Generation
For approximately €10,000, your organisation can make a complete IVC project possible for one primary school, giving 60 to 70 children and their teachers access to an unforgettable musical experience.
Your support makes possible:
- Creative workshops led by professional artists
- Opportunities for children to develop confidence, creativity, and teamwork
- A final performance together with professional singers, shared with their families
Not ready to sponsor an entire school? You can also co-fund a project together with other partners. Every contribution helps us reach more children.
Why Partner with IVC?
By partnering with IVC, your organisation invests in:
- Equal access to arts and cultural education
- Creativity and talent development
- Confidence, communication, and collaboration
- Stronger schools and connected communities
Together, we create opportunities that have a lasting impact.
Create an Experience They'll Never Forget
A single inspiring experience can change the way a child sees the world.
Whether you are a parent, grandparent, entrepreneur, or simply someone who believes in the value of music education, your support gives children the opportunity to discover classical music, express themselves creatively, and perform with professional singers.
For many children, it will be an experience they carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Let's make a difference together
Whether you choose to sponsor a school, support part of a project, or become a long-term partner: together we can open the door to a world of music, creativity, and imagination for the next generation.