With support from the California Arts Council, Santa Cecilia Orchestra will present two 8-week sessions of Rhythmus, a series of workshops and drum circles that offer opportunities to experience both art and community building. Adults from Los Angeles neighborhoods that are underserved by the arts will work with professional percussionists to learn about indigenous instruments from a variety of countries, hear them played and then join a communal group drumming circle to create their own art.
The Orchestra consistently performs sell-out orchestral concerts and has an extensive education program that introduces children to classical music to provide an outlet for expression and awareness of cultural heritage. It consists of three components: a basic introduction for elementary schools that includes classroom visits by musicians, duets and trios playing in the classroom and free tickets to Orchestra concerts; a String Program for elementary school children to learn to play violin and viola; and a mentorship program for middle schools and high schools that pairs professional musicians with students. We also have an honors program for gifted students of all ages with free lessons on an instrument. The basic education program reaches approximately 16,000 students each year

