The South Carolina Philharmonic introduces its inaugural “Music in My Neighborhood” program, an immersive community initiative aimed at bringing a week of free ensemble performances, educational programs, and unique collaborations to different Midlands neighborhoods each year. The inaugural program will take place in the Town of Irmo, South Carolina, from April 8 to April 13, 2024.
Supported by a Connected Communities Grant from Central Carolina Community Foundation and funded in part by the South Carolina Arts Commission, the program focuses on making classical music experiences accessible to the community. The week-long event includes free performances, educational activities, and collaborations designed to enrich the lives of individuals through the transformative power of symphonic music.
“The Music in My Neighborhood initiative centers around providing live music experiences in a variety of spaces for diverse audiences,” said Susan Cafferty, Director of Education and Community Outreach. “The SC Phil believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy high-quality live music experiences; therefore, all the performances will be inclusive, accessible, and free.”
Throughout the week, SC Philharmonic musicians will visit schools, engaging with students and providing educational programs to enhance and supplement classroom instruction. The program also includes public events featuring different ensembles at various locations in Irmo.
The program schedule is as follows:
Monday, April 8, 2024:
- Healing Harmonies at Generations of Irmo (String Quartet)
- Musical Storytelling with the SC Philharmonic: Peter and the Wolf at Lexington County Library: Irmo Branch Library (Small Orchestra)
Tuesday, April 9, 2024:
- Chamber Chats at Young’s Chapel AME Church (String Quartet)
- Chamber at the Chamber at Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce (Brass Quintet and Percussion)
Wednesday, April 10, 2024:
- Classical Coffee at Loveland Coffee (Flute & Harp Duo)
- Healing Harmonies at Harbison Shores (Flute & Harp Duo)
- An Evening with the SC Philharmonic at Lexington County Library: Irmo Branch Library (String Quartet)
Thursday, April 11, 2024:
- Chamber Chats at St. Simon and St. Jude Episcopal Church (Woodwind Trio)
- Beethoven & Brews at Craft and Draft (Percussion Ensemble)
Friday, April 12, 2024:
- Conduct the Phil at Columbiana Centre (Small Orchestra)
- Healing Harmonies at Prisma Health Baptist Parkridge Hospital (Woodwind Trio)
Saturday, April 13, 2024:
- Music in My Park at Irmo Amphitheater (Full Orchestra with Music Director, Morihiko Nakahara)
The program aims to engage the community, make classical music accessible, and deepen educational opportunities for residents. For more information about the South Carolina Philharmonic, please visit SCPhilharmonic.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram.
