Small ensemble groups are already performing as East Metro Symphony Orchestra’s Symphonies for Seniors program ramps up for fall and winter at senior centers around the east metro.
Symphonies for Seniors is a unique program that brings EMSO orchestra members to senior living facilities to perform in small ensemble groups or full orchestra performances, offering residents of those facilities ready access to live orchestral music.
“This season there will be performances by the full symphony orchestra, a string ensemble, clarinet duos, string duos, trios, and quartets, vibraphone…and more!” says EMSO Concertmaster and Symphonies for Seniors Coodinator Aja Majkrzak. “The response from EMSO members has been enthusiastic. It’s been exciting to see orchestra members take initiative and form their own ensembles.”
The program is gaining popularity among senior residences in the east metro. EMSO has added two new locations since April and has increased the number of both small group and full orchestra performances this season.
Two small ensemble groups have already performed for residents in August and September. Seven other small ensemble performances and three full orchestra concerts are scheduled at senior centers in Woodbury, St. Paul, Oakdale, and Oak Park Heights through May 2025.
Majkrzak says performing for these seniors is always rewarding. “When residents talk to us afterward, it’s obvious how much it means to them to be able to experience a concert in person. And we love having the opportunity to share the music that means so much to us.”
The orchestra was proud to recieve another grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board last spring in support of this program over the 2024-2025 season.
For more information on Symphonies for Seniors concerts, visit the Symphonies for Seniors page.
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to legislation appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.