Education and Community Engagement

Our musicians make a difference.

The Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s work extends far beyond performing concerts across Hampton Roads. Our musicians dedicate many hours each season to reaching young people in our community with educational programming.

Each year, these programs serve more than 45,000 students. This work is critical in the face of public funding cuts to music education: there is a significant gap in children’s exposure to music, and we are determined to help bridge that gap. Our roster of programs includes:

HeartStrings, which strengthens character through string instruction for elementary students in underserved schools

Master Classes, where the VSO’s internationally acclaimed guest soloists provide instruction to young musicians

SOAR, an artist residency program matching VSO musicians with local schools for coaching and mentorship

Young People’s Concerts, a series that brings elementary students from 11 cities to their first orchestra concert

Please join us in making this important work a reality by donating to our education programs today!