Kinderconcerts
The youngest students are introduced to the world of music with a Kinderconcert. These wonderful presentations bring a string duo to schools to perform, demonstrate string instruments, play music games and introduce basic musical concepts to grades K-2 students.
MSO Ensemble Concerts
At the center of the MSO’s education efforts are its ensembles performances in schools for students in grades three through twelve. Ensembles reflect the four families of instruments in the orchestra: strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion. Performances and demonstrations are designed for grades three and up and can be customized to match student needs. The musicians perform and provide insight about music, their instruments and take questions from the students in this intimate setting.
These age-appropriate concerts for elementary through high school students are enhanced by an integrated classroom curriculum, provided by the Memphis City Schools through a collaboration pilot project called Music, Math, Science and Technology. The curriculum explores a standard school subject through the lens of music. Past subjects have included weather, geography, and Tennessee and United States history.
Young People’s Concerts
Ensemble visits and the integrated curriculum prepare students for the exciting opportunity to attend a concert at the Cannon Center designed just for them. Free recordings of the pieces on the program help the students become familiar with the music they will hear at the concert, but nothing can fully prepare them for the grandeur of the full orchestra performing live in a magnificent concert hall.
Artists-in-Residence
This program provides top-rate mentoring and instruction for students in Memphis City schools. Students learn from MSO musicians through performances, master classes, “side-by-side” rehearsals, and group lessons. Positive role models to music students in the inner-city and additional teacher support to the public schools. The program's mission is to provide an overall improved self-image of students through infusing Memphis Symphony Orchestra players into instrumental and orchestral programs throughout the greater Memphis area.
Chamber Education Concerts
Every year, four to five schools receive a visit from the entire core orchestra through a grant from Arts Memphis. They perform selected pieces, demonstrate orchestral instruments and teach musical concepts. In the familiar environment of their own school, students respond especially well to the up-close presentation of classical repertoire by professional musicians.
Other learning opportunities:
Concert Spotlight
Beginning 45 minutes before each First Tennessee Grand series performance, join us in the Cannon Center lobby (GPAC Dance Studio on Sundays) for our new and improved pre-concert conversations. Conductors usually lead these discussions on the upcoming performance sharing their insight and personal story for the program. Surprise appearances by musicians and guest artists are also in store. Free with concert ticket admission.
Student Rush Tickets
We have Student Rush tickets for $5, available sixty minutes before the start of the performance. Students must show their Student ID to receive the Student Rush price. We also offer discounts on advance Student tickets. For more information, visit Student Discounts.
For more information on learning opportunities in schools, contact Jenny Compton, Librarian & Education Coordinator or call (901) 537-2532.