Community Programs
Uniting our community through music. Find us in your neighborhood and attend free annual community concerts.
42nd Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
For over 40 years, The Cleveland Orchestra has celebrated the unifying message and memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This dynamic musical program, performed by The Cleveland Orchestra in the historic Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Concert Hall, features outstanding soloists, the MLK Community Chorus, and the presentation of the Community Service Awards.
Concert & Broadcast DetailsCommunity Service Awards
Each year, The Cleveland Orchestra recognizes individuals or organizations who have positively impacted Cleveland in the spirit of the teachings and example of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
View Past RecipientsMLK Community Chorus
The MLK Chorus lifts its collective voice in affirmation of Dr. King’s vision of justice, peace and human harmony. Assembled since 1989 to sing as part of the annual MLK Celebration Concert, this volunteer community chorus brings together singers from across Northeast Ohio and is directed by William Henry Caldwell.
Register Now Learn More- Proof of vaccination and booster are required to participate in the 2022 MLK Chorus.
Neighborhood Partners
By collaborating closely with local neighborhoods, The Cleveland Orchestra creates long-term, sustainable programs that musically address their unique needs.
New Voices, New Music
Partnering with Cleveland Classical Guitar Society and El Comité Mexicano de Cleveland, musicians of The Cleveland Orchestra brought to life the pieces of 2 composers. Hermelindo Ruiz explores Puerto Rican musical styles as he reflects on being a part of, yet separate from, mainstream American culture and Thomas Flippin examines the dual viruses of COVID-19 and racism, calling attention to the pervasive ways they have infected American society.
These 3 works are part of a series designed to increase cultural understanding and awareness of important social issues, and was supported by the Cleveland Foundation.
Gordon Square Music Showcase
Partnering with Gordon Square’s elementary schools, beginning band and choir students performed side-by-side with and were coached by Cleveland Orchestra musicians. The celebratory concert showcased the community’s musical talent and supported and strengthened the school’s music programs.
Crescendo
Providing hands-on instrument instruction and coaching, Crescendo ensures that students in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District have access to quality music education. Students are guided by Cleveland Orchestra musicians throughout the year. Programs take place during the school year at Mound STEM Elementary School (Suzuki violin instruction), Wade Park Elementary School (trumpet & trombone instruction) and Cleveland School of the Arts (music lessons and coaching).
Play It Forward
Give children the pride, the joy, and the lifetime benefits music-making provides
For many of us, it’s difficult to imagine a world without music. But for countless children in Cleveland, this is the reality. Let’s work together to get instruments into the hands and lives of Cleveland’s children. Join Cleveland City Councilman Kevin Conwell, The Cleveland Orchestra, Arts Cleveland, Center for Arts Inspired Learning and the Cleveland Metropolitan School District to Play It Forward Cleveland!
Join the Cause