NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO), the region’s premier orchestra, announces its first series of Young People’s Concerts in partnership with NOLA Public Schools welcoming over 3,000 students in grades 2nd-5th. The series of groundbreaking concerts will take place in three award-winning and newly renovated historic auditoriums across New Orleans. This collaborative initiative, born out of a partnership between the LPO, LPO Board Member Dr. Stephen Hales, Orleans Parish School Board Member Olin Parker, KIPP New Orleans, Algiers Charter, InspireNOLA Charter Schools, and NOLA Public Schools promises an extraordinary cultural experience for elementary school students across New Orleans. Three of the concerts will be presented to NOLA-PS students, while a fourth concert is open to the public. For the fourth concert, admission is free to anyone under the age of 15 and $18 for ages 16 and above.
“I am thrilled that our students have this opportunity,” said Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) Member and lifelong violinist Olin Parker, who helped organize the concerts as OPSB president. “Music is the foundation of our city and has played an enormous role in my own life. I am very grateful to the LPO for sharing their gifts and filling these incredible art deco auditoriums with beautiful music.”
“I am overjoyed to be able to witness the fusion of classical music and our city’s rich cultural heritage through this remarkable collaboration,” said Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams. “I believe in the power of music to inspire and educate, and these Young People’s Concerts exemplify the commitment to providing our scholars with a truly immersive and culturally diverse educational experience. This initiative is a testament to the transformative power of music and the arts in shaping the lives of our students.”
“We are excited about this unique collaboration, bringing together the talents of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, educational leaders, and local cultural icons. This initiative is a celebration of the vibrant cultural tapestry that defines New Orleans,” said Anwar Nasir, executive director of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.
This series of Young People’s Concert represents a new partnership with NOLA Public Schools and underscores a commitment to providing students with a holistic and culturally rich educational experience. Students are encouraged to play and sing along with the LPO for these performances. Two local actors, Whitney Mixon and Pat Smith will lead the students along with Guest Conductor David Torns for these engaging and interactive performances.
YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERTS
The Young People’s Concert series features LPO musicians performing orchestral classics including Dvořák’s New World Symphony, Beethoven’s Ode to Joy, and more under the direction of guest conductor, David Torns.
THURSDAY, FEB. 1, @ 10 a.m. | Rose Mary Loving Auditorium (formerly Martin Behrman)
Schools attending:
· Behrman Charter
· Alice Harte Charter
· Eisenhower Charter
FRIDAY, FEB. 2, @ 10 a.m. | Frederick Douglass High School Auditorium
Schools attending:
· KIPP Believe
· KIPP East
· KIPP Leadership
· Pierre Capdau
