While the Maryland Symphony Orchestra was preparing to captivate audiences with Beethoven’s epic Ninth Symphony last week, another equally powerful performance series was unfolding—this time in the halls and classrooms of local elementary schools.
Ensembles in the Schools is one of the MSO’s core educational outreach programs, designed to introduce young students to the joy and wonder of orchestral music. Over the past few weeks, our talented musicians visited schools throughout the region, engaging first, second, and third graders in a series of interactive assemblies. Each visit gave students the chance to explore one of the various instrument families—strings, woodwinds, and brass—while learning basic musical concepts, hearing familiar tunes, and experiencing great classical compositions up close.
From lively question-and-answer sessions to spontaneous bursts of laughter and wonder, these performances are more than just assemblies—they’re unforgettable first encounters with live symphonic music.
While we’re excited to share a few photos from our string ensemble visits, it’s important to note that woodwind and brass ensembles were also out and about, bringing the full spectrum of orchestral sound directly to students. Many children had never seen—or heard—these instruments in person before. That kind of exposure can spark lifelong curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the performing arts.
These experiences wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our community. We are deeply grateful to the organizations that help make Ensembles in the Schools a reality:
The City of Hagerstown, Delaplaine Foundation, Alice Virginia and David W. Fletcher Foundation, Groh Charitable Trust, Maryland State Arts Council, Albert E. & Naomi B. Sinnisen / Kershner Sisters Foundation, Washington County Arts Council, Community Foundation of Washington County, and Washington County Public Schools.
Thanks to their commitment to arts education, we’re planting the seeds of music appreciation in the hearts of hundreds of students—one school, one instrument, one song at a time.
