The Columbus Symphony offers a variety of educational programs for classrooms during the school calendar year. Providing concerts for young people has been a longstanding tradition since its first season in 1951-52.

Young People's Concerts
Grades K-2, Grades 3-5 and Grades 6+

Each year, thousands of students throughout the greater Columbus area participate in the Columbus Symphony’s Young People’s Concerts.  Concerts are programmed at the Ohio Theatre and are thematically based and grade appropriate.  Pre-concert materials are provided for teachers and students based on the Ohio Academic content standards. All seats are $5 and include a student workbook and one teacher guide & CD. (1 free teacher ticket for every 20 students).

Click here for more information for Grades K-2.
Click here for more information for Grades 3-5.
Click here for more information for Grades 6+.


Backstage with the Symphony
Grades 3-8

Students in grades 3-8 can experience a unique behind-the-scenes look at the orchestra in rehearsal, as well as a comprehensive tour of the Ohio Theatre led by knowledgeable docents.  This is an opportunity for students to learn about the architecture and history of the Ohio Theatre as well as the history of the Columbus Symphony.

Click here for more information for Backstage with the Symphony. 

In-School Concerts/Small Ensemble

In-school performances are tailored to different grade levels and bring classical music directly to young people in Columbus communities. Prices range from $200 for one performer to $2000 for the full orchestra.

For additional information, please call (614) 228-9600 ext. 1281 

Columbus All-City Orchestra

The All-City Orchestra offers talented high school students in the Columbus City Schools the opportunity to work with professional conductors and coaches in a high-quality rehearsal and performance environment. This orchestra program is modeled after the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO) – members are selected by audition; students and parents sign a participation agreement to attend all rehearsals and a concert specified in the 8-week program; and students receive complimentary tickets to CSO and CSYO concerts and an All-City orchestra T-shirt.

The overall outcome of the All-City Orchestra is recognizing achievements of talented and dedicated young musicians in CCS high schools, providing them with a musically enriching experience and an enhanced understanding of the academic curriculum concepts of the fine arts, using orchestral music as a vehicle for understanding both musical and non-musical concepts.

Auditions for the 2009-2010 season begin in the winter in preparation for rehearsals in the spring.

For more information about this program, please call (614) 228-9600 ext. 1281

Pathways to Performance (on hiatus)

Initiated in the fall of 2007, this program provides free, private instrumental lessons by a professional musician to economically disadvantated students who show talent and dedication to learning in the Columbus City School District.