CSO’s Access to Music
“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.”
— Plato
Human beings come in so many different varieties, makes, and models. Where the differences are plentiful, one universal truth binds us together—music is for all. And with the power to evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and forge connections, music is an amazing tool for developing young minds. It can be used to support the growth of children’s emotional expression, spatial awareness, and even their motor skills. Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Assistant Conductor Duo Shen remarks that: “Music is a universal language—one that speaks to everyone. It has the power to connect with each person in a deeply personal way. This concert invites our community to experience not only the joy of music, but also the meaningful and potentially life-changing impact it can have.”
In an effort to promote the benefits of music to all abilities, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra will be performing “Access to Music” on February 1st. Shen notes that, “This concert is our way of embracing all of Cincinnati and making sure everyone feels welcome. By creating a sensory-friendly environment and partnering with the local nonprofit The Well, we’re offering an experience where people of all ages can enjoy music in a way that feels comfortable and supportive.” Accommodations that help make this all-ages, all-inclusive symphony experience at Music Hall more accessible include:
- pre-visit materials available, including a social story
- brighter house lights
- designated quiet areas
- shorter concert length
- accessible seating
- no restrictions on noise or movement
The Access to Music concert will feature iconic and recognizable classical works, including Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, a movement from Dvořák’s Slavonic Dance, Debussy’s Clair de lune, and more. In closing, Shen shares the mission and impact he hopes to accomplish with the CSO show: “We hope this concert encourages members of Cincinnati’s amazing community to connect with music in their own way. Music shapes our emotions and thoughts differently for each of us, and providing a safe, inclusive space for that exploration is incredibly important. We want guests to feel free to engage with the music however they choose and leave feeling inspired.”
Access to Music will take place on February 1st at 2 p.m.
Click HERE to view the Access to Music Social Narrative
$10 tickets are available for purchase; click HERE to buy your tickets to Access to Music
Music Hall
1241 Elm Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-381-3300
