The news about the April winner of Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric’s Caring Community Giveaway is music to the ears of Denver’s local community. Inside the Orchestra is the latest recipient of the $1,000 Caring Community Giveaway that Applewood offers to nonprofits each month.
“This is an inspirational group of people,” said John Ward, Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric president. “Inside the Orchestra goes to great lengths to give kids a special and unique opportunity and we’re proud to be a part of that experience.”
The organization celebrates 58 years of keeping music education alive within the Denver metro area. Inside the Orchestra is focused on introducing young children to the world of orchestra music through immersive, interactive programs that are open to the public and provided in the school system. Their musicians provide programming to more than 70 schools throughout the year, immersing the students in music ranging from Beethoven to Star Wars.
Last school year, Inside the Orchestra reached over 22,000 people, 70 percent of whom are from underprivileged communities. Since most of these children have limited exposure to the arts, the organization works hard to provide experiences that are otherwise scarce.
Funding is provided through grants, individual donations, and sponsorships. According to Shelby Mattingly, Inside the Orchestra’s executive director, the Caring Community Giveaway award will open the door for more than 100 students to be engaged with live orchestra music.
The Tiny Tots Program is geared toward an even younger audience – 6-years-old and younger. The children are situated on stage while the sounds of the orchestra literally surround them with a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Students in grades K-6 are given an opportunity to perform with Inside the Orchestra before an audience of their peers through the Concerto Program. This program has successfully given soloists the experience, confidence and encouragement necessary to pursue advanced musical talents.
