COLUMBUS, Ohio — ProMusica Columbus will end their season with concerts this weekend. But first, the group got to honor some special guests earlier this week.
ProMusica's "Play Us Forward" program takes string instruments and instruction into some under-resourced middle schools in Columbus at no cost to the students.
The program culminated this year in a field trip to the Southern Theatre on Thursday for a rehearsal with musicians from ProMusica, followed by a performance for friends and family. Students were able to perform alongside the professionals in the historic theater.
"These kids are awesome," said Lauren Blair, Education & Community Programs Manager for ProMusica. "To play in such a big venue and for a lot of people, it's really cool to see them come in a lot of excitement and a lot of fear and push themselves. They're always so proud of themselves and it's something really special."
For this weekend's final performances, a smaller group of older and more advanced players will step in as the opening act for the chamber orchestra.
"I really enjoy my experience; I'm having fun," said Sarey Williams, a 7th-grade musician who just switched from violin to cello this year. "It really makes me feel like more comfortable and it makes it easier for me to learn. I really enjoy the chance that I get to have fun with them and learn new things because, like, some people don't get that and I'm really grateful for it."
The season finale concert of ProMusica Columbus is titled "Vadim Gluzman Plays Tchaikovsky." It marks the end of a season-long celebration of 10 years of Music Director David Danzmayr and Creative Partner and violinist Vadim Gluzman.
The performance will feature pieces from Silvestrov, Brahms, and Tchaikovsky.
For showtimes and ticket information, visit: https://promusicacolumbus.org/event/gluzman-plays-tchaikovsky-2024/