A core part of our mission is to "create outstanding educational opportunities." Through the Academy, we work with hundreds of students each week in one-on-one lessons and ensemble activities. The Fred & Charlotte Hubbell Visiting Artist In Residence Program sends inspiring guest artists into area schools every year. And each spring, we invite fourth graders from all over Central Iowa to hear the Orchestra perform at the Civic Center in four special performances over the course of two days.
During those four performances, nearly 5,000 school children are introduced to our Orchestra. They experience the magic of live symphonic music, many of them for the first time. This year, the program features beloved favorites, from Rossini's Finale from the William Tell Overture to Peter Hamlin's Symphony on a Stick. It also features music loved by generations: John Williams' Music from Harry's Wondrous World!
Prior to the concerts, educators and their students receive an online concert package including lesson plans, a Teacher's Resource Guide and instrument demonstrations to help prepare students for their concert experience. From instrument families and composers to famous repertoire and concert etiquette, students fully experience a live symphony performance.
Members of the Des Moines Symphony Youth Symphony also have a very unique experience: They play alongside our professional Orchestra musicians during a side-by-side rehearsal and during the concerts! The winner of the annual Youth Symphony Concerto Competition also performs as the guest artist for the Youth Concerts, playing in front of a packed house.
These programs are made possible through the generous support of Douglas B. Dorner, M.D. & Carole Villeneuve, Corteva Agriscience, Meier Bernstein Foundation and West Bank.
