Philharmonic musicians, volunteers and staff give children
an up-close-and-personal look at the orchestra during hospital visits.

(Orlando, FL – October 27, 2011) – Last Wednesday, musicians, staff members and volunteers gave many hospitalized children something to smile about. Armed with instruments, Wii video game controllers and some short arrangements of classical tunes, the group paid a visit to the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, where they treated patients to hands-on activities, including the opportunity to try out real instruments and conduct a virtual orchestra.

One musician from each section of the orchestra was involved in the presentation. Jeff Thomas, principal trombonist, demonstrated the brass instruments, Sandra del Cid, flutist, demonstrated various flutes and recorders, Carl Rendek, timpani, gave kids a hand-on experience with cymbals, snare drum, conga, and tambourine, and bassist Robert Kennon helped patients try out violin, cello and bass. To top it all off, volunteers were standing by to assist children in conducting a virtual orchestra on a Wii video game system.

“Often the chance just to be a kid, to play, to laugh, to sing and to make music serves as a most potent and wonderful medicine,” said James Smart, father of Talon, an 11-year old who tried out a half-size cello with help from Orlando Philharmonic musician Robert Kennon.

Holly Solis, Music Therapist at the hospital, says exposing patients to these kinds of experiences are invaluable.

“I have witnessed how great of an impact music can have on hospitalized children,” she said. “It provides a safe, non-threatening environment for them to express their feelings, gain self-esteem, release anxiety, and be creative with other children.”

Before the end of the year, the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra will make three more visits to the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children to give children an up-close-and-personal look at the instruments of the orchestra and help them create special bonds with professional musicians in the community.

Future visits will take place:

• Nov 2 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Nov 30 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Dec 14 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Each hospital visit is a condensed version of the Philharmonic’s Notes in Your Neighborhood program, an after-school initiative that introduces students to music through interactive lessons that build character and self-confidence, as well as musical skills. The Notes in Your Neighborhood program includes an introduction to the orchestra instruments, an instrument “petting zoo,” and the opportunity for children to create original music.

“This experience at Arnold Palmer Hospital has been really thrilling for everyone involved, especially the children and their parents,” says Orlando Philharmonic Education Director Eric Smith. “Orlando Health’s outstanding leadership has long emphasized the importance of music in a child’s recovery, and we are grateful to be partnering with them to present these programs.”

The Philharmonic has a deep commitment to education, introducing students to the world of symphonic music through programs that are entertaining, educational and fun. The Philharmonic reaches 60,000 children each year through its Young People’s Concerts, Notes In Your Neighborhood program and Tiny Tots preschool residencies.

The mission of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra is to foster and promote symphonic music through excellence in performance, education and cultural leadership. To learn more about the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and its education  programs, call 407-896-6700 x232 or visit www.OrlandoPhil.org.

Please note: these programs are not open to the public.
A photo opportunity for the press will be offered on November 2.
Please call ahead at 407-896-6700 x232 to arrange any visits by the media.

Photo caption:

Talon Smart, 11, tries out a cello during the Philharmonic’s visit to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

 Contact:

Emily Lindahl elindahl@orlandophil.org
Director of Public Relations
Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra
812 E. Rollins Street, Suite 300
Orlando, FL  32803
PH: 407-896-6700 x223
FAX: 407-896-5512