Symphony honored for Enriching Students’ Education Through Music

During a board meeting earlier this month, the San Bernardino City Unified School District recognized the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra (SBSO) for its long track record of supporting music in the community and schools.

Symphony Executive Director Dr. Anne Viricel and San Bernardino City Councilman Damon Alexander accepted the Outstanding Community Partner Award on behalf of the Symphony.

The Symphony’s Music in the Schools program launched in 1991 to actively encourage participation in school music programs and show students that the Symphony is for music lovers of all ages and walks of life. The program involves school presentations that introduce students to the differing orchestra instruments and a free, live symphony performance at the historic California Theater. During COVID, the Symphony partnered with Cal State San Bernardino music students to record fun segments for different instruments that included music and trivia.

The San Bernardino Symphony Youth Wind Ensemble is one of SBSO’s newer educational initiatives. The Ensemble provides Inland Empire students from ages 14 to 21, most of whom are SBCUSD students, a nurturing and creative environment to grow their musical talent and self esteem, culminating in two live concerts per year. The Symphony also offers free tickets to SBCUSD Outstanding Student Award winners.