EDUCATION AND OUTREACH PROGRAMS
SCHOOL CONCERT PROGRAMS
One of the most exciting arts partnership programs offered anywhere, the SCHOOL CONCERT PROGRAM is designed to be an integral part of the fine arts curriculum for elementary school students. The School Concert Program consists of:
- An online multi-media presentation with teaching elements designed around the program’s music and composers, complete with music excerpts and photos.
- PSO musician school campus visits to demonstrate and discuss their instrument and what it’s like to be a professional musician in the orchestra.
- A concert experience field trip given during the second semester. This is the culmination of the program.
- Reinforced learning following the concert experience.
In 2022, over 17,000 people attended School Concerts from seven different school districts. Of the participating schools, 37% serve Title I students. Over 150 musican visits were made this past year.
INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO
The INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO is a free outreach program where a selection of instruments (violins, drums, flutes, glockenspiel, trumpets, trombones, etc.) are provided. This is often the first opportunity children have to handle and experience musical instruments. The zoo is used by home school groups, at private events, and at large community festivals.
To reserve the Instrument Petting Zoo, please contact Plano Symphony Director of Education Jennifer Wheeler.
Children and families enjoy the Instrument Petting Zoo.
PSO EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The PSO EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM provides funding for year-long, instrumental private lessons to deserving PISD middle school students. Scholarships are awarded based on director referral and financial need.
- 72 scholarships have been awarded since the program’s inception
- 15 scholarships will be awarded in the 22/23 Season
HEALING NOTES
HEALING NOTES FOR SENIORS
Music therapy influenced concerts in partnership with Sound Starts Music
- Interactive performances with PSO chamber ensembles
- Residents participate through singing, movement, and playing handheld percussion instruments
- 24 concerts in 2021
- 54 senior living facilities have participated in the program
HEALING NOTES FOR INCARCERATED YOUTH
In cooperation with the Collin County Juvenile Detention Center, weekly drum circles and concerts by PSO chamber groups are provided to teens aged 12–17.
These sessions encourage relaxation, cooperation, and leadership skills and are a much needed outlet for the residents.
Education and
Outreach Sponsors
THE REA
CHARITABLE
TRUST
Season Sponsors
TAMMY AND
CHARLES MILLER
WANDA AND CLIFF PARKER
Carol and Bill Tempest
Nancy Freeman
Sustaining Funders
THE BURNHAM
FOUNDATION
Pat and Bruce Morrice
PSO’s performances at Kaleidoscope Park are made possible, in part, by a gift from Capital One.
