Supported by grants in its entirety, our Kidzymphony Orchestra Program brings classical music to diverse and underserved communities of the Lowcountry. It is a unique orchestra, modeled after El Sistema, a youth development program that promotes the values of access and excellence through intense, high caliber music instruction. It is housed, as an after school program, at Meeting Street Academy in urban Charleston.

Every year, Kidzymphony adds 24 students, at no cost to their families. Through private instruction, students learn to play the violin, viola, or cello. They also meet for group activities such as music classes, orchestra rehearsals, basic skills/theory, and guest performances. Kidzymphony students and their families come in touch with the world of music taught at the high level of expertise of CAM instructors and are exposed to exceptional musical experiences, ranging from concerts with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra to jazz and plantation spiritual music culturally relevant to the region.

The program started in 2007. At its current location, 2011-12 is the third year of Kidzymphony.

CAM’s vision for the future is to continue to develop engaging programs for our community. We view the Meeting Street Academy as a starting point for our unique orchestra, which we envision to expand in more public schools and additional venues in the region.