DSO+Kids

=DSO Kids [|www.dsokids.com]=

Authority

 * Domain is .com, which makes sense considering it is hosted by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Only other possible domain type is .org if the DSO is non-profit.
 * site by Mike Itashiki, a Recorder/Promoter/Photographer who has a long list of well known clients (see [|www.musichost.com])

Instructional Content

 * History of selected classical and modern composers, taught through games
 * Instrument education
 * History of the orchestra
 * Texas state history and culture
 * Basic Music Theory (types of scales)
 * Instructions on how to practice effectively
 * Make your own instrument activities

Sources for materials are not well documented, but considering the site is sponsored by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, it has credibility.

National Standards addressed
 * 6. Listening to, analyzing, and describing music.
 * 9. Understanding music in relation to history and culture

Site is copyrighted 2006

Purpose, Viewpoint
The page was obviously made to publicize the Dallas Symphony Orchestra to younger audiences, considering how many activities there are based on their orchestra, the orchestra hall, and the members of their orchestra. It also was made to teach children about music through teaching them about instruments, composers, and specific music. The only bias that would be evident on this site would be bias toward the Dallas Symphony Orchestra as opposed to other orchestras.

Reputation
The fact that the site is sponsored by a major city symphony orchestra gives the site a great reputation. Not many major sites link to this site, but there are some other symphony orchestras that link to this page, as well as some schools.

Overall Evaluation
While the site may seem to be lacking in actual music information compared to other sites, it makes up for it with a great colorful atmosphere that is sure to interest children. The games are goofy, but they serve their purpose well. The site itself is very well constructed, which shows great programming skill. The information on the composers is good, and although there is no specific citation on the site, the sponsor's reputation gives the information credibility. A great site to send Elementary and Middle School children to find information on various composers and on instruments of the orchestra.

Rating: ++++ (4/4 stars)

Stephen Allen (4/4/07)