Community-Embedded Musicians Rise to the Challenge

Since the Houston Symphony launched its Community-Embedded Musicians initiative in 2015, the musicians holding these specialized, hybrid performer-teaching artist positions have improved thousands of students’ and community members’ quality of life through music. As highly skilled musicians with a special passion and skill for community engagement, the Community-Embedded Musicians (CEMs) work in many different settings—schools, … Continued

Virtual Summer Orchestra Camp with Cy-Fair ISD

Most people will probably agree that this new “normal” of social-distancing and working or learning from home has required us all to find new ways to stay motivated and socially engaged. Music students across Greater Houston are accustomed to learning music in a social environment, with encouragement from their peers in school ensembles, so music … Continued

High School Residency Chamber Music Project

Community-Embedded Musician, David Connor, double bass, recently completed a virtual chamber music project with Houston-area students as part of the Symphony’s High School Residency program, presented by Occidental. Here, Dave reflects on the experience and shares some highlights from performances with students. Over the last two years, I’ve had the great opportunity to make monthly visits … Continued

Community Engagement in a “New Normal”

“It’s incredible that through the power of technology we can continue to interact with the students and stay connected to this community. Even though it is through a different platform, I can see that the students are very excited and eager to continue learning about the violin. In this unprecedented time of isolation, our interaction … Continued