This September, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) brought the joy of live orchestral music directly to local neighborhoods with two free community concerts, presented by the DTE Energy Foundation. Held at Greater Grace Temple in Detroit on September 19 and The Hawk in Farmington Hills on September 20, the concerts drew a combined audience of 1,234 people — a testament to the community’s enthusiasm for accessible, high-quality musical experiences.
Conducted by Ingrid Martin in her debut as the DSO’s Assistant Conductor and Phillip & Lauren Fisher Community Ambassador, the performances featured a vibrant program that was well received by all attendees. Audiences were also treated to the premiere of selections from 313: Six Vignettes for Orchestra by Detroit Composer Laureate Patrick Prouty.
Before each concert, families enjoyed hands-on activities including instrument try-outs, crafts and movement workshops, creating a welcoming and engaging environment for all ages.
“Investing in the arts is investing in the soul of our communities,” said Rodney Cole, president, The DTE Foundation. “These concerts with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra reflect our commitment to cultural enrichment and equitable access to the arts. By supporting performances in neighborhoods across metro Detroit, we’re helping ensure music and creativity remain vital forces for connection, inspiration and community pride.”
The impact of these concerts was deeply felt by attendees. One audience member shared:
“Lower income and large families can’t always provide arts experiences outside of community events. We need this.”
These community concerts reflect the DSO and DTE Foundation’s shared commitment to making the arts accessible to all. The support of the DTE Foundation, the enthusiastic attendee participation and the DSO’s community concerts once again proved that music has the power to uplift and unite. As the final notes faded, what remained was a shared sense of joy, inspiration and a renewed commitment to making the arts accessible to all.