Member of the League of American Orchestras


"EXTRA, EXTRA!"
Free Labor Day Concert
Canal Basin Park
Sat. Sept. 4th, 6 p.m.

"Cushion Concert"
Piano and Voice
Altoona Library
Sat. Sept. 25th, 11 a.m.

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Click below to apply for a Target grant to take a field trip to one of our Young Peoples Concerts!

The aim of the education committee is to provide educational opportunities for our area youth and general population. This is accomplished through the following activities.


Young People's Concerts

Each year, the Altoona Symphony Orchestra invites third, fourth and fifth grade students from our surrounding area to attend a concert at the Mishler Theatre. These are directed concerts utilizing a particular theme, and pre-concert preparation for teachers and students. Materials include an outline of music that will be performed, including excerpts of the music, information on the composers, basic instrument identification and teaching plans. Art and music teachers are encouraged to integrate and utilize the materials to better prepare their students for the concert experience. The favorite part of these concerts for most children is visiting the beautiful Mishler Theatre and explanation of the works performed by the Maestra. Reservations are required for this event.

Thursday, October 28, 2010
Young People's Concert
Mishler Theatre
10:30am/12:30pm



Cushion Concerts

Designed to introduce children (suggested ages 2-12) and their families to the joy and wonder of music. “Cushion Concerts,” are short (45-60 minute), informal concerts introducing the audience to a specific genre of music, family of instruments or musical story. This year we will focus on instrument groups. “Cushion Concerts” are held at area libraries and are a great way for youngsters to learn more about music. Children are invited to bring their own cushion. We provide the fun, all we need is you!

Piano and Voice
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Altoona Library, 11 am

Woodwinds, Saturday, October 23, 2010
Barnes and Noble, Altoona, 11 am

Strings, Saturday, March 12, 2011
Hollidaysburg Library, 11 am

Brass, Saturday, April 30, 2011
Williamsburg Library, 11 am


Musicians in the Schools

Orchestra musicians and guest artists have the opportunity to work with various high school bands and orchestras through the Musicians in the Schools program. Musicians are available to help teachers and students by coaching sectionals, conducting Master classes, providing private instruction, or conducting rehearsals.

This year, the ASO will provide two Master classes to music students in the community:

 

Masterclass with Guest Violinist, Bella Hristova

Thursday, September 30, 2010
Altoona Area High School Auditorium
Time, TBD

Masterclass with Horn Player, Jeffrey Lang

Saturday, March 19, 2011
Location and Time, TBD

Master class participation requires a personal invitation to perform.



Imagination Music Station

Children of all ages are invited to visit our touring 'Imagination Music Station!' Children have the opportunity to handle and play instruments of all musical families including: percussion, brass, woodwind, and strings. Volunteers and ASO musicians explain the features of the instrument and how to hold the instrument. The Imagination Music Station goes on tour and visits festivals, elementary schools, concerts and more! The station also includes an art project for children to take home and from time to time performances by ASO musicians.

The Imagination Music Station recently visited the Blair County Arts Festival in May and Spring Dam Weekend in July. Occasionally, the ASO is able to accommodate requests to visit additional events or school functions. Please contact us today if you are interested in learning more.


The ASO Would like to Thank our Education Sponsors:
The Community Foundation
The Dominion Foundation
The Alma Leighty Fund
The Pennsylvania Humanities Council
Sheetz, Inc.
The Target Foundation