Our Education Programs
Youth Orchestras
Summer Music Camps
Musician Makers Scholarships
Musically Speaking
A Love of Music
Young musicians in our rural communities have fewer opportunities to connect with professional musicians and grow their skills than students in larger metropolitan areas. We offer a host of meaningful education programs for students of all ages to learn about music and train as performers as part of our professionally led and supported programs.
SJS Youth Orchestras
The San Juan Symphony Youth Orchestras are audition-based ensembles that provide training in the full orchestra experience. Both the advanced Youth Orchestra and introductory Junior Orchestra cater to serious music students with a passion for playing. Students devote themselves to weekly rehearsals and individual practice to improve their skills and connect with a supportive community of their peers.
Summer Music Camps
The SJS supports the musical education of students of all ages each summer. These camps include the Young Musicians Camp, the Piano Academy at Fort Lewis College, and the Durango Chamber Music Academy. The Camps impact hundreds of students of all ages, and the community has an opportunity to hear a variety of performances by these budding musicians-in-training.
Musician Makers Scholarships
The San Juan Symphony Musician Makers Scholarship provides opportunities for young artists to access private and semi-private music lessons who otherwise may not have the opportunity.
Musically Speaking
The “Musically Speaking” lecture series offers an opportunity to learn from the perspectives of Music Director Thomas Heuser. Prior to each Symphony concert weekend, Dr. Heuser provides a free 1-hour lecture that provides context for the upcoming performances. These free events are an engaging way to deepen the experience of the live performance experience.
