Explore Music! Programs
Education & Outreach
The Billings Symphony’s Explore Music! community engagement programs reach beyond the stage and into the communities in and around Billings. Our free programs spread the love and joy of music to everyone, serving over 20,000 per year.
Music heals. Music soothes. Music teaches. Music inspires.
Symphony in the Schools
This exciting program gives school-aged children the opportunity to work alongside the professional musicians of the Billings Symphony. Maestra Anne Harrigan conducts area school bands and orchestras, while the Symphony musicians tell their stories of what it is like to be a professional musician in Montana.
Community Partnerships
Maestra Anne Harrigan and musicians visit local civic and cultural organizations, the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, The Friendship House, and more, to share the joys of symphonic music with everyone.
Programs for Adults
You’ve purchased your concert tickets … now double the value and pleasure of your Symphony experience by taking advantage of these wonderful presentations ahead of the concert.
Symphony for Seniors
This amazing program provides music for our greatest generation. By visiting local nursing homes, senior meal sites, memory care units and assisted living facilities, Symphony musicians are able to help enrich residents’ lives through music.
Adventures in Music
The Billings Public Library hosts this extensive instrument petting zoo the morning of our FREE Family Concert. Children can try any of the large array of instruments while hearing demonstrations from Symphony musicians. We also hold AiM at other locations, such as towns in Wyoming, Carbon and Stillwater counties, Sidney, Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Boys & Girls Clubs, Senior homes, and Symphony in the Park.
Rural Rhythms
Billings Symphony musicians perform for residents in rural communities, many who are unable to make the drive to Billings for our concerts. Communities visited range from Roundup to Sidney to Sheridan (Wyoming) to Harlowton.
Symphony in the Prison
This weekly guitar class at the Montana Women’s Prison provides hands-on music education. Inmates learn many life skills to assist them during and after their incarceration. The Symphony also provides instrument petting zoos and quarterly concerts within the prison.
For Student Musicians
The Billings Symphony offers a host of experiences for student musicians ranging from internships and performance opportunities to master classes and competitions. Check back later for more details.
For Educators
Information on signing up for Explore Music! outreaches and a teacher's guide for school concerts. Check back later for more details.