SLSO trombonists play on stage in front of patrons in senior center

SymphonyCares

Since its inception during the 2011/2012 season, the SLSO’s SymphonyCares program has enriched peoples’ lives through the power of music by providing free performances for those who may be unable to attend a concert at Powell Hall. SLSO musicians perform at various locations throughout Greater St. Louis including healthcare facilities and senior living centers.

A Glimpse into SymphonyCares

Working with our strategic partners – including Saint Louis University and Maryville University’s Music Therapy program, the SLSO has also been involved with many exciting and groundbreaking programs and research studies. The results of these studies indicate the positive impact of music on our physical and mental health including: lower blood pressure, improved memory, reduced stress, and even a decrease in the intensity of pain we feel.

Over the course of one week in December 2023, SymphonyCares engaged with hundreds of people in two special concerts: one at the Missouri Eastern Correctional Center in Pacific, Missouri, and another at St. Agnes Home, an assisted living facility in Kirkwood, Missouri.

“It’s part of the SLSO’s philosophy that music knows no boundaries,” said Maureen Byrne, the SLSO’s Vice President of Education and Community Partnerships. “It is our privilege to share music with all types of audiences. Our musicians receive so much energy and enthusiasm from the audiences we reach through SymphonyCares.”

SLSO Musician Jonathan Reycraft plays trombone next to clapping woman

Creative Music Making

Now in its 14th year, Creative Music Making is a unique partnership between the SLSO, St. Louis Arc, and Maryville University Music Therapy that empowers people with disabilities served by St. Louis Arc to conceive and perform their own concert.

PBS produced a documentary about this powerful partnership.

Watch Now

Creative Music Making is supported by:

The Kuhn Foundation