The benefits of music to children are vast.
Kathy Kucsan, Education Director at the Center for Musical Arts (the education arm of our Festival), shares that “Music ignites all areas of child development and skills for school readiness, including intellectual, social-emotional, motor, language, and overall literacy.”
Although all music is great for children, classical music can especially affect children’s development and well-being. Research shows that exposing children to classical music can promote better listening, stress reduction, and emotional expression, among many other benefits.
But you’re probably wondering, how do I get my child to sit down and listen to classical music?
Enter the Colorado Music Festival’s Family Concert.
The family concert is part of the annual festival. The festival itself is a summer concert series at Chautauqua Auditorium in Boulder, Colorado, bringing together orchestral musicians from all over the world. The family concert is one of the concerts in the series, where the music, narration, and scheduling are all designed to bring classical music to the youngest listeners.
If bringing your children to a classical music concert sounds overwhelming, fear not. Here’s everything you need to know to make the experience as easy and enjoyable as possible:
What is a family concert?
A family concert is a musical performance suitable for children and their parents or caregivers. Our family concerts were created to provide an inclusive environment where families can come together to experience the beauty of live classical music.
What should I expect at the family concert?
The family concert incorporates interactive elements to engage children in the performance. It might include sing-alongs, audience participation, storytelling, or opportunities for children to participate in music-making.
What type of music is performed?
Every year, the Colorado Music Festival Family Concert features something different. Previous selections for the show have included The Story of Babar, Really Inventive Stuff, and Peter and the Wolf.
Is the concert suitable for my child’s age group?
The family concert is designed for kids of all ages, from 0-100!
Can I still attend the family concert if I don’t have children?
Absolutely! Our family concert is for everyone!
Is there a dress code for the family concert?
We advise that you dress to feel comfortable. The family concert is inside Chautauqua Auditorium, which is not air-conditioned. Visit our tips page to learn more about what to expect regarding the temperature.
How long is the concert?
The family concert lasts approximately 45 minutes.
Is there an intermission?
There is no intermission during the family concert.
Is there reserved seating?
Seating for the family concert is general admission open seating.
Are snacks or refreshments allowed?
Water in clear, plastic bottles is permitted inside Chautauqua Auditorium. Other food and beverages are not allowed.
Are strollers allowed?
Strollers are not allowed inside Chautauqua Auditorium. However, there is designated stroller parking available.
Can I bring my diaper bag inside?
Security may search diaper bags for prohibited items (food or drinks other than water); however, diaper bags, including bottles, are permitted within the auditorium.
Do I need to purchase a ticket for my child?
All concert attendees will require a separate ticket. Children under two years old who are lapsitting do not need their own ticket.
What if my child starts crying during the concert?
No problem. Our family concerts have an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Feel free to stand, move around, and exit the show anytime. Seating is general admission, so you may want to choose a seat closer to a door if you know you will need to leave throughout the concert.
What’s parking like?
If you plan to park at Chautauqua, keep in mind that parking is minimal. The auditorium is located on a hill; we suggest you allow ample time to park your car and plan for access by wheelchairs and strollers.
Anything else I should know?
A large playground for kids aged two and up is located next to Chautauqua Auditorium! When attending the family concert, why not make a day of it?
Pack a picnic basket (you’ll have to leave it in your car or outside the auditorium during the performance) and head to the playground after the show! You’ll see many families enjoying the scenic backdrop of the Flatirons while picnicking in the fields adjacent to the playground!
Our family concert is an excellent way for parents and caregivers to introduce children to the world of music, encourage a love for the arts, and spend quality time together. Check out our visitors page for more information on attending the festival.
We look forward to seeing you at the next family concert!
