On August 16th, the Harmony Program concluded its 2024 summer camp with a captivating final show at the Peter Jay Sharp Theater at The Juilliard School. Our gifted youngsters delivered a remarkable performance for an audience of more than 700 parents, friends, and family members. For three exciting weeks, 345 dynamic young musicians aged 5-18 from all parts of the city engaged in one of six spirited ensembles: Rhythm Rookies, Junior Choir, Senior Choir, String Ensemble, Junior Orchestra, or Senior Orchestra.

Harmony’s Teaching Artists guided instruction each weekday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Teaching Artists are professional musicians trained at top colleges and music conservatories. This summer, instructors represented numerous countries, including Italy, Greece, and Venezuela.

Elena Sartor co-taught our youngest learners, the Rhythm Rookies, and spoke highly of her experience. She said, “Our class of 15 eager children brought so much energy and excitement each day. The days were intense but filled with joyful exploration – percussion instruments, singing, music-themed books, and arts and crafts. Each week ended with an inspiring performance where students proudly showcased their learnings by singing and playing drums in front of families and friends. It was a truly unforgettable experience.”

Besides a robust schedule of instruction, the Harmony Program summer camp started each day with a performance by a world-class artist. Guest artists included Grammy-award-winning wind quintet, Imani Winds; nine-time Grammy Award-winning jazz bassist, Christian McBride; Broadway star, Ben Walker; and Principal Trumpet with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, David Krauss, among others. This enriching program, accommodating various skill levels from beginner to professional, is graciously offered free of charge to all participants and their families.