Free admission made possible by National Endowment for the Arts, SC Arts Commission, BlueCross BlueShield of SC, Colonial Life and Elizabeth Wheeler

The South Carolina Philharmonic presents its third annual sensory-friendly concert, Family Time with the Phil, on Sunday, March 30th, 2025 at 3:00 PM at the Koger Center for the Arts. As a component of the SCP’s educational and outreach programs, this inclusive concert gives audience members the ability to fully experience orchestral music without any of the constraints of a standard performance. During this 60-minute program, audience members are free to move about, dance, speak, sing, vocalize or move between the auditorium and the lobby if desired. Thanks to support from the National Endowment for the Arts, SC Arts Commission, BlueCross BlueShield of SC, Colonial Life and Elizabeth Wheeler – this concert is free to the public. No registration is necessary.

The South Carolina Philharmonic will partner with various organizations to present this year’s family concert event. While the organization is currently filling its roster of partners, previous organizations were The Unumb Center for Neurodevelopment, The SC Commission for the Blind, Family Connections of SC, Key Changes Therapy Services, Carolina Autism and Neurodevelopment Research Center and Palmetto Animal Assisted Life Services. The orchestra is passionate about working with these partners to provide resources to the families that attend the event, and to continue positioning the SC Philharmonic to provide opportunities that welcome all audiences by removing barriers. The event also boasts an instrument “petting zoo” in the lobby before the concert, as well as the chance to meet some off-duty service dogs who also attend the performance.

Child gets to experience a double bass at the 2024 Instrument Petting Zoo

Numerous studies have highlighted the benefits of classical music, particularly for young children and families. Research suggests that exposure to classical music can enhance brain function, support cognitive development, and improve relaxation. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that listening to classical compositions can reduce stress, improve mood, and even aid in emotional regulation. Additional research from the Journal of Neuroscience suggests that early exposure to music enhances neural connections related to memory and learning. These benefits, with no ticket cost barriers, make events like Family Time with the Phil an ideal way for families to introduce children to the joys of orchestral music in a welcoming environment.

Under the direction of Music Director Morihiko Nakahara, this concert will feature a thoughtfully curated selection of orchestral pieces designed to captivate and inspire audiences of all ages. By continuing its mission to remove barriers to live music performances, the SC Philharmonic is excited to welcome families to an event where all can experience the magic of classical music in a supportive, stress-free environment.

The SC Philharmonic’s Sensory Friendly Family Concert will be presented on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 3:00 PM at the Koger Center for the Arts. Admission is free and no registration is necessary.

The South Carolina Arts Commission is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts and collaborates in its work with the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies and South Arts.

The South Carolina Philharmonic is committed to performing live symphonic music and providing dynamic educational opportunities in the Midlands. We carry forward a legacy of passion for the music and embrace our responsibility to be a vibrant part of the cultural fabric of our diverse community.

For more information about the South Carolina Philharmonic, please visit SCPhilharmonic.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.