COMMUNITY OUTREACH
THE FSO CAMERATA
The Frederick Symphony Orchestra’s (FSO) summer residency “The FSO Camerata” performs a series of free concerts to serve our community. The mission of our summer residency is to extend the existing programming of the Symphony and further enrich the vibrant musical culture of Frederick. The Camerata provides audiences and musicians with a diverse repertoire in interesting and sometimes unconventional venues, creating the uniquely intimate musical experience that only smaller ensembles can offer.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
The FSO enriches aspiring musicians of all ages with classical music through youth programs and partnerships. Throughout our concert season, we showcase the talents of the region’s best up-and-coming musicians through our Young Artist Competition (YAC) and the Side-by-Side program. The FSO also collaboratates with Frederick County Public Libraries, Music & Arts, and other organizations to increase and enhance free music education, facilitate academic achievement, and develop creative capacities for lifelong success.
SIDE-BY-SIDE MENTORING PROGRAM
Our Side-by-Side Mentoring Program is designed for any qualified high school musician (16 years old and younger) to attend rehearsals and perform in one concert, as instrumentation allows. Students who audition successfully will be mentored by an established musician in their section. As part of our Side-by-Side initiative, students will experience:
- Challenging repertoire in an orchestral environment
- Mentorship with an established adult musician in their section
- Sectional rehearsal opportunities
- Advanced ensemble rehearsal techniques
SYMPHONY STORYTIME
Symphony Storytime gives your child the chance to explore music through engaging performances. They’ll experience books read aloud in selected Frederick County Public Libraries with live music performed by a member of the FSO. A musical instrument ‘petting zoo’ presented by Music & Arts follows each performance. Learn more by going to the Frederick County Public Library website.
KIDS GO CLASSIC CONCERTS
Musical masterpieces come to life in these engaging performances by the FSO’s Chamber Ensembles. Featuring excerpts from classical greats, this narrated concert series serves as an ideal introduction to classical music, especially for young people who are curious about playing an instrument.
MUSIC MAKERS JR.
We offer free classes that engage your preschooler’s natural love of songs, instruments, movement, and imaginative play with activities that introduce early music concepts in small groups. Music Makers Jr. classes are also available for elementary school students.