Education - Akron Symphony Orchestra

Education

Meet the Instruments

An orchestra is a large group of musicians who play together on a variety of string, wind and percussion instruments, with the conductor leading the musicians. Click on the button to learn about the various instrument families.

Meet the Composers

The music that an orchestra performs is written by a composer, who arranges the musical notes in different ways. Click on the button to learn about some of the most famous composers and their music.

Concerts for Kids

Concerts for Kids is designed for children ages 2-6. The concepts, listening and interactions strengthen a wide range of learning and developmental experiences for children. Programs address the child development and early learning framework including creative arts expression, initiative and curiosity, attentiveness, receptive language, literacy knowledge through storytelling, and the portrayal of events, characters and stories through acting.

Link Up

The Akron Symphony is one of more than 100 national and international organizations selected to participate in the Link Up program in partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute. Link Up is a highly participatory program that invites approximately 3,000 students from public, private, charter and parochial schools throughout Northeast Ohio to learn about orchestral repertoire through a yearlong, hands-on music curriculum.

World Music

Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute has free digital programs and resources that highlight music from around the world, including lesson plans, teaching videos, and full concert videos for students and teachers in grades K–2.

Music Educators

Carnegie Hall’s Music Educators Toolbox currently features grade-specific music education resources addressing fundamentals of rhythm, meter, singing, form, dynamics, articulation, tempo, pitch, and performing.

Musical Periods

Classical music is generally broken down into six periods or genres, starting with Early Music, primarily featuring the human voice, and continuing through today with a diverse range of musical styles. Click on the button to learn more about the various periods of music.

Community Outreach

PERFORMANCE ENSEMBLES: A variety of small ensembles are available for performance at community events. Click here to download an ensemble request form to learn more about how music by Akron Symphony Orchestra musicians can enhance your event.

HEALING ARTS: The Akron Symphony partners with healthcare providers and musicians to nurture and utilize the healing power of music in healthcare settings. Healthcare providers are invited to sponsor choral and instrumental ensembles to perform within their facilities and as part of their programs.

ADULT EDUCATION FOR COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS: Music Director Christopher Wilkins and musicians from the Akron Symphony are available to provide entertaining and informative dialog on a variety of topics.

For more information, contact Fran Goldman, Director of Artistic Operations, at 330.535.8131.

IN-SCHOOL ENSEMBLES: Your PTA/PTO may be interested in sponsoring a program at your school. In-School Ensemble Programs offer elementary students an up-close-and-personal concert experience through programs that includes an introduction to the instruments with a lively hands-on discussion and enjoyable, recognizable pieces that demonstrate important musical concepts. Our programs are designed to address the Ohio Department of Education Music Standards. For a list of available programs and pricing options contact Fran Goldman, Director of Artistic Operations, at 330.535.8131.

INSTRUMENTAL & VOCAL WORKSHOPS designed to enhance the skills of music students are available. Our professional musicians and conductors are available to work with students in your school.

CHORUS PROGRAMS: Members of the Akron Symphony Chorus and Gospel Meets Symphony Choir are available for outreach and educational programs.

PREVIEWS FROM THE PODIUM: One hour prior to each of the Akron Symphony’s Classic Series Concerts, Music Director Christopher Wilkins will provide insights about the music and composers featured on the evening’s program. He is often joined by other performers, soloists or composers for this relaxed yet informative talk.

OPEN REHEARSALS: Select concert rehearsals are open for students and community members to attend as part of a school or community outreach program. Check our Concerts page for details.

For more information about available workshops, contact Fran Goldman or Brenda Justice at 330.535.8131.

Need a Speaker?

Members of the Akron Symphony / Greater Akron Musical Association executive and artistic staff, Board of Trustees, orchestra and chorus are available to talk about Akron Symphony programs, music, the lives of professional musicians, careers in music, and their own leadership roles within the orchestra and the community. Our representatives are available to visit:

  • Schools and classes
  • Arts organizations and advocacy groups
  • Community music programs
  • Civic engagement organizations
  • Corporations and small businesses
  • Leadership groups
  • Membership organizations
  • Foundations
  • Boards of Directors/Trustees
  • Economic development groups
  • Government entities
  • Media
  • Anyone else interested in what we offer

If you would like to have us speak with your community group, organization or class, please contact Executive Director Paul Jarrett or Education and Community Engagement Coordinator Orzella Matherson at 330.535.8131.