orKIDStra: Science of Sound

Explore how music comes to life in this engaging, family friendly concert that dives into the science behind sound. orKIDStra: The Science of Sound invites children and their grown ups to experience live orchestral music through interactive moments and music they recognize, from the adventurous themes of How to Train Your Dragon to the crackling energy of Strauss’s Thunder and Lightning Polka, the playful snap of Anderson’s Jazz Pizzicato, and the bold sweep of Sousa’s Liberty Bell March.

This year’s OrKIDStra concert holds special significance as it is presented as part of the Louisville Orchestra’s historic MakingMUSIC program. Founded in 1940, MakingMUSIC is the orchestra’s flagship education initiative and one of the longest running programs of its kind in the nation. For generations, MakingMUSIC has been a defining part of arts education in Louisville, reaching thousands of elementary students and instilling a lasting love for music.

The program highlights how sound is created across the orchestra, shimmering strings, thundering percussion, and soaring brass, helping young listeners connect what they hear to how instruments work together. Activities for all ages will be available before the concert, offering hands on ways to explore the science of sound.

Through a unique partnership with Jefferson County Public Schools, all fourth and fifth grade students participate in MakingMUSIC at no cost. Each year, students either attend a core concert with free tickets and transportation or experience in school visits from orchestra musicians. By opening this year’s MakingMUSIC concert to the public as an orKIDStra performance, the Louisville Orchestra is extending a tradition once reserved for students to families and the broader community. “MakingMUSIC has shaped generations of young listeners in Louisville,” said Gabriel Lefkowitz, who will conduct this year’s concert joined by Association of Louisville Orchestra Concerto Winner, cellist Sonya Moomaw. “Inviting families into this experience allows us to share that legacy more widely and help kids connect what they hear to how sound is created across the orchestra.”

This event is free and open to the community. Registration is encouraged to receive event updates and pre concert information. Seating is general admission and available on a first come, first served basis.