The Johnstown Symphony Orchestra presents two free concerts to area students in grades 3 through 12, introducing young audiences to the instruments and sounds of the orchestra. Our Annual Young People’s Education Concerts offer an incredible opportunity for our Johnstown Symphony Youth Orchestra members to learn directly from our professional JSO musicians, while hundreds of students from across the region experience the joy of seeing their peers perform on stage.

Attending these concerts gives students a meaningful, high-quality arts experience that supports the work teachers are already doing in their classrooms. Schools participate because:

• It builds musical literacy. Students see and hear the full orchestra up close, reinforcing concepts in music curricula such as instrument families, rhythm, melody, and ensemble playing.

• It inspires young musicians. Watching peers their own age perform alongside professionals shows students what is possible and encourages continued participation in band, orchestra, and choir programs.

• It supports social and emotional learning. A shared live performance fosters attention, curiosity, empathy, and reflection—skills that stay with students long after the concert ends.

• It removes barriers to the arts. As free concerts, these performances ensure that every student has access to live symphonic music regardless of background or school resources.

• It strengthens community connections. Students get to see their regional symphony in action, helping them feel pride in and ownership of the arts in their community.

These concerts are designed to spark imagination, deepen understanding, and create memorable experiences that stay with students for years to come.