YOUTH PROGRAMS
for Children, Families, and Schools
Symphony in Our Schools
Elementary SchoolsThe Albany Symphony’s flagship education program, Symphony in Our Schools (SiOS), sends musicians into classrooms throughout the year to introduce second and third graders to the instruments of the orchestra. Students explore science, math, language, and social sciences through the prism of music. Reach out to have SiOS visit your school!
Family Concerts
All AgesAs a culmination of the SiOS classroom visits, family concerts are exciting interactive performances created by Music Director David Alan Miller. In coordination with school curricula and to meet the specific goals of students, teachers, and families, teachers receive materials to teach their students before and after the concert.
Tiny Tots
Young Children, ages 3-7, and individuals with Sensory SensitivitiesTiny Tots introduces our youngest audiences – tailored to ages three to seven – to the wonders of orchestral music. Programs feature lively, creative concerts with orchestra musicians in interactive songs. Tiny Tots programs are held each spring for approximately 2,000 children.
Magic of the Season
Students of All AgesThe Capital Region’s iconic holiday spectacular puts local talent, including Capital District Youth Chorale, Rince Go Brách, The Music Studio, and Northeast Ballet Company, on stage with the Albany Symphony. Watch out for our Magic in July Sale!
Guest Artist Masterclasses
High School, College, and Lifelong LearnersVisiting artists are paired with high school students and college programs that resonate with the guest artist personal story and teaching approach to offer exceptionally meaningful and interactive conversations and professional guidance for young local musicians.
Symphony Side by Side at MVP Arena
Middle and High School, College, Lifelong LearnersThe Albany Symphony and the Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO) present an afternoon of collaborative musicianship and mentoring. Student musicians from ESYO perform alongside Grammy-winning Albany Symphony Orchestra players to experience the symphonic performance process at the professional level. The two orchestras invite student ensembles from area schools and musicians from the general community to join in the grand finale, creating a rare opportunity for musicians at all levels to play alongside professionals and become part of a remarkable celebration of the uniting power of music!
Guest artist master class with Brandan Patrick George at Albany High School
Additional Projects
Albany Symphony Instrument Playground
At free, family-friendly events, Albany Symphony educators invite children and people of all ages to try out the instruments of the orchestra! Bow a violin or a cello, pucker up to a trumpet or trombone, clack a castanet, blow into a flute, and set your embouchure for a clarinet or saxophone. Volunteers guide individuals in the basics of making sounds with each instrument, teach beginner techniques, and, yes, sanitize the instruments between each use. Made possible with musical instruments from John Keal Music and Vanguard-ASO, the dedicated volunteers for the Albany Symphony Orchestra.
Literacy through Songwriting
Middle and High SchoolLiteracy through Songwriting started with composers-in-residence working with middle school students on self-expression, writing lyrics, teamwork, and group performance of their works. This project has featured the artistry of composers like Clarice Assad and Harriet Steinke and more.
Get Involved! Contact lilyw@albanysymphony.com
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Donate during Music in Our Schools Month
