Holiday concert to feature young violinists
Free performance scheduled for Dec. 8 in Trappe
When the Audubon Symphony Orchestra performs its holiday concert on Dec. 8, it will have an extended violin section for one number — orchestra members will be joined by the elementary school violinists from Phoenixville’s Crescendo violin program.
Crescendo Phoenixville is a community-based music program that provides high-quality music education to Phoenixville children who might otherwise not receive it. Each Crescendo student receives a free violin, free year-round music instruction in a group setting, and frequent performance opportunities to showcase their developing musical skills.
The Audubon Symphony is a non-profit community orchestra based in Trappe and open to musicians of all ages. The Crescendo children will join the Audubon Symphony in a performance of “Christmas Singa-Long,” an arrangement of traditional Christmas carols by area composer Bob Cerulli.
The concert will take place Friday evening, Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, 200 W. Main St. in Trappe. There is no admission charge.
Elizabeth Grimshaw, a classically-trained violinist, founded Crescendo Phoenixville in 2018. There are currently 30 elementary school children enrolled in the program, and they represent the broad diversity and vibrant cultural traditions of the Phoenixville community.
Crescendo receives no financial support from the Phoenixville Area School District and relies on grants and individual donations for its budgetary needs.
Grimshaw is excited about the concert. As she says, “This is a great opportunity for our kids; it promises to be a can’t-miss collaboration.”
Audubon Symphony Orchestra conductor John Mayer sees this concert as a way to encourage the Crescendo kids to develop a lifelong love of playing music and attending live performances.
For more information about the Audubon Symphony, visit http://www. audubonsymphony.org.
For more information about Crescendo Phoenixville, visit http://www.crescendophoenixville.org.