Sensory friendly concert is in partnership with Sound Starts Music Therapy.
PLANO, TX – The Plano Symphony Orchestra invites families to dive into an engaging, kid-friendly musical experience with “Strings and Splashing Tails,” part of its popular H-E-B | Central Market Family Series. The performance will take place on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Robinson Fine Arts Center and will feature favorites from Disney’s The Little Mermaid and Moana, alongside classical highlights from Carnival of the Animals and other ocean-inspired works. Tickets range $15-$19 and can be purchased through the Plano Symphony Orchestra Box Office at (972) 473-7262 or planosymphony.org
Designed especially for families with young children, “Strings and Splashing Tails” introduces audiences to the vibrant world of string instruments through a lively, interactive program. Young concertgoers will experience how instruments like the violin, viola, cello, and bass create expressive sounds while bringing imaginative, water and animal-inspired themes to life.
The H-E-B | Central Market Family Series is known for blending education and entertainment, offering children a chance to learn directly from professional musicians in a welcoming, hands-on environment. These performances are crafted to spark curiosity, encourage creativity, and provide a memorable introduction to live orchestral music.
“Families are welcome to move freely, take breaks, and enjoy the performance in whatever way works best for their child!” says Director of Education and Community Engagement, Dr. Jennifer Wheeler. “We are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all families.”
“Strings and Splashing Tails” continues the Plano Symphony Orchestra’s mission to make music accessible and engaging for audiences of all ages through innovative programming and community-focused events. This event will be a sensory friendly concert in partnership with Sound Starts Music Therapy. To help children feel comfortable and prepared, we offer several sensory-friendly accommodations. Families will receive a digital “What to Expect” document during the week of the concert. This guide outlines the flow of the event so children can become familiar with what will happen before they arrive.
- Visual Communication Sheet: Available at the concert, this sheet uses pictures to highlight key elements such as instruments, musical themes, and activities, supporting visual learners and easing transitions.
- Quiet Space: A designated quiet area will be available for children who may need a break from the performance. Families are welcome to use this space at any time.
- Pre-Concert Sensory Activities: Beginning 45 minutes before the concert, sensory-friendly activities (such as water beads) will be available in the lobby to help children settle in and engage at their own pace.
- Guided Group Activities: During the concert, music therapists from Sound Starts will lead interactive group activities designed to encourage participation in a flexible, supportive way.
Special thanks to Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital for sponsoring this sensory friendly concert and family series title sponsor H-E-B | Central Market.
To learn more about the Plano Symphony Orchestra and its many education and community engagement programs, visit planosymphony.org.