The San Diego Symphony recently hosted two joyful days of concerts at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, welcoming thousands of young students for an unforgettable introduction to live music. Held March 18–19, the four interactive concerts brought together 8,000 elementary school students—along with their teachers and families—from more than 29 school districts and over 114 elementary schools across San Diego, Orange, and Riverside counties. Another 2,000 students joined via livestream, with ASL interpretation onstage to make the experience accessible to all.




These concerts were the grand finale of the Symphony’s free Elementary School Program entitled "Beat and Groove", which helps students learn the basics of music through hands-on activities and live performance. For many young audience members, this was their very first time seeing and hearing a live orchestra—and they didn’t just sit and listen—students sang, danced, and even read along, turning the concerts into a fully interactive experience.

The performances were led by conductor Enluis Montes Olivar, part of the Symphony’s inaugural Conducting Fellowship program, who brought great energy and connection to the stage. Host and performer Casey Breves added to the excitement, singing with the orchestra and leading students in fun and engaging movement choreography throughout the program. Volunteers from the Kiwanis Club of San Diego also helped welcome students and keep things running smoothly on March 18.

More than anything, these concerts were about sparking curiosity and joy. San Diego Symphony's Elementary School Program gives students a chance to experience music in a fun, engaging way—building early connections to creativity, collaboration, and the arts that can last a lifetime.

Learn more about our school programs here.