Thomas Chen, Director of Orchestras for Carmel High School, will again be leading the Carmel Symphony Orchestra (CSO) for the Music Matters educational concerts on Monday, October 27 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. The CSO presents a morning and an afternoon concert to allow a larger number of students to attend. The CSO offers these free concerts, designed especially for fifth- and sixth-grade students, as a part of its educational outreach. These interactive performances introduce young audiences to the sights, sounds, and stories of the orchestra, sparking curiosity and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. 

While these concerts are presented at no charge to the students, the CSO seeks support from area corporations, individuals and grants to cover the production costs of these performances. This year’s Music Matters concert is made possible by a grant from Glick Arts. Its Founder and CEO, Marianne Glick said, “By funding the Music Matters concerts, Glick Art continues to champion access to cultural experiences that enrich lives and strengthen communities.” 

“Thanks to Glick Art’s generosity, we can continue providing transformative live music experiences to children who might otherwise never have the chance to hear an orchestra in person,” said Nancy Sutton, CSO Board Chair. “This support allows us to inspire the next generation of musicians, patrons, and arts advocates.”
 

Thomas Chen Background:
Thomas Chen is Director of Orchestras at Carmel High School in Carmel, Indiana. Under his direction, the Carmel High School Symphony Orchestra earned regular appearances at the Indiana State School Music Association State High School Concert Finals, produced a recording of Dvorak Symphony No. 9, and performed at The Midwest Clinic in 2019 and will perform again in 2024. Chen previously held the position of Assistant Director at Dobie High School in Houston, Texas, where he helped lead five orchestras to earn Superior ratings at UIL Concert and Sight Reading.

To learn more about Thomas Chen, click here.

For more information about the Music Matters concerts, please contact the CSO offices at (317) 844-9717.