The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Cincinnati Pops is pleased to continue its collaboration with the combined high school orchestras and bands of Indian Hill, Mariemont and Madeira High Schools. This collaboration has become an essential aspect of the Orchestra’s education and community engagement initiatives.

The students from each school will learn the same pieces of music throughout the winter semester in their respective ensemble rehearsals, receiving coaching along the way from Pops Conductor John Morris Russell and CSO and Pops Assistant Conductors and musicians. The rehearsals will come to fruition for a full-scale performance on April 11 at 7 p.m. at Indian Hill High School, featuring all three high schools performing together on one stage conducted by Mr. Russell. Well over 200 student musicians will enjoy the educative and thrilling experience of rehearsing and performing with one of the country’s most respected conductors and leaders in music education.

“I’m thrilled we are continuing this collaboration for the fifth year in a row,” said Mr. Russell. “It’s a joy to see how this program has developed as well as the intense dedication of the student musicians and faculty members in rehearsing and performing together on this very special event. One of the most gratifying endeavors as Pops conductor is working in the community with music educators, developing self-discipline, creativity, teamwork and love of beauty in our students.”

“As the leading music organization in the region the Orchestra embraces instrumental instruction as a tool for learning and change,” said Ahmad Mayes, Director of Education and Community Engagement. “Our instructional programs foster talent and teach excellence to the next generation of community-minded musicians and leaders.”