An indoor concert of a string orchestra with a conductor, audience seated on chairs, and children sitting in a rainbow unicorn-themed inflatable pool.
An orchestra performance with musicians playing string, wind, and percussion instruments on a stage with wood paneling and a large screen displaying a fiery bird logo with the words "FREBRI STRAVINSKY."
Four people standing in a studio, smiling for a photo, with a television behind them displaying a sign that says 'The Jesse Col...' and decorative shelves on the wall.

OUR COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Children’s Concerts

In collaboration with Carnegie Hall, Aiken Philharmonic participates in Link Up, a music education program provided by Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute (WMI). This is done in partnership with Aiken and Edgefield County Public Schools to bring orchestral music to 4th grade students. Students have a chance to sing or play the recorder with the orchestra from their seats. This experience often serves as a students’ first orchestra concert and provides them with the opportunity to apply the musical concepts they have studied through the nationally distributed curriculum. The performances are also open to interested families with students not enrolled in Aiken or Edgefield County Public Schools.

Aiken Philharmonic is one of over 100 national and international organizations chosen for this program. This year Aiken Philharmonic presented Link Up’s “The Orchestra Sings” program which explores the mystery, beauty, and the power of great melodies.

Side-by-side performances

Another way Aiken Philharmonic engages with area students is through a side-by-side experience where young performers have a chance to sit alongside Aiken Phil musicians in rehearsals and a concert.

Student musicians

Some of the best area high school students are invited to actively participate in the orchestra throughout the rest of the season. In addition to talented high school students, Aiken Philharmonic also partners with the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at USC Aiken to offer college string students an orchestral opportunity to count as ensemble credit through an independent study course.

Youth Concerto Competition

Aiken Phil also sponsors an annual youth concerto competition open to young performers. The winners of this competition enjoy the opportunity of performing with the orchestra.

More engagement

Aiken Phil musicians teach many students throughout the CSRA–many of whom are associated with Carolina Academy of Music. Music Director Adam DePriest has also served as director for the Aiken Youth Orchestras, who have been featured in the past as part of pre-concert entertainment. Aiken Philharmonic also sponsors workshops, bringing guest teachers to the area, often through masterclasses of visiting musicians.