Have some “Family Fun!” with the CSO
Posted on January 06, 2010The Carmel Symphony Orchestra presents, Family Fun!, an interactive concert geared toward children of all ages on Sunday, February 14, 3:00 p.m. at Westfield High School.
The Family Fun! concert is a unique opportunity that no other regional orchestra offers. The unusual format, designed specifically with children in mind, allows families to enjoy quality, classical music together in a relaxed environment. During portions of the performance, children are invited to sit on stage with the musicians to get an up-close look at a symphony performance. Following the concert, children can participate in a Musical Petting Zoo, allowing them (and adults) to actually play the instruments they have just heard.
The concert will also feature Arthur Shou, the winner of the CSO’s 2009 Young Artist Concerto Competition. Shou, an award-winning pianist and Carmel High School sophomore, will perform the first movement of Piano Concerto Number 3 by Prokofiev. Shou started piano at the age of six and his exceptional talent has already earned the attention of the music world. He has won several awards and competitions including first place in the Young Hoosier Pianist Competition in 2005 and third place in the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Maurer Young Artists Concerto Competition in 2009. Shou has attended the Indiana University Summer Piano Academy for three years where he was selected to perform in master classes. He has also performed at Ball State University, Goshen College, Anderson University and the Indiana Historical Society.
“For me, this is one of the most exciting concerts we present. To watch the eyes of young children light up as they experience hearing great music is a magical moment,” says Alan Davis, President and CEO of the Carmel Symphony Orchestra. “I always look forward to hearing the winner of our Young Artist Competition; their talent and musicianship never cease to amaze me.”
The professional musicians of the Carmel Symphony Orchestra will play “Greatest Hits for Kids” including excerpts from works by famous composers such as Mozart, Strauss, Beethoven, Rossini, Mendelssohn, Dvořák and many more. From the William Tell Overture to “Star Wars,” children and adults alike will be treated to an afternoon of musical excitement.
“I’m proud that we’ve developed such an incredibly rich and stimulating musical experience for young listeners,” says David Bowden, Artistic Director for the Carmel Symphony Orchestra. “Each year, the musicians look forward to our Family Fun! concert. The close interaction between the musician and the children is inspiring.”
