Discovery Concert 2023-2024 will explore some of the very best orchestral music ever written in a fun and interactive format. This captivating learning experience will be guided by Music Director Michael Butterman, alongside the immensely talented musicians of the Boulder Philharmonic.

This season’s program is ‘A World of Music!’ with a vibrant curriculum that we have created to help your students explore orchestral music, diversity, and the richness of cultural expressions around the world.

Free Interactive World Music Passport

Enjoy our Virtual Discovery Passport, designed to transport you and your students on a musical journey around the globe, all within your classroom. Immerse yourselves in the rich cultural tapestry of over 20 countries as you embark on an educational adventure. With its interactive format, the Virtual Passport goes beyond mere geography and brings the world’s music directly to your ears. Each musical piece is a window into the heart and soul of a different culture, providing a unique opportunity for cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

Featured Artists and Composers

The 2023-2024 Discovery lineup showcases masterpieces originating from diverse corners of the world: from Nielsen’s intricate Danish symphony to Russian Ippolitov-Ivanov’s orchestrations, Bartók’s Hungarian harmonies, and Ravel’s enchanting French arrangements. This orchestral journey also resonates the modern cadence of contemporary maestros including the rhythmic prowess of William Cahn, the expressive notes of Valerie Coleman, Huang Ruo‘s fusion of tradition and innovation, the rhythmic Latin influences of José Pablo Moncayo, and the timeless allure of Louis Prima’s compositions.

The 2023-2024 Discovery Program thanks the following sponsors for their support:

AEC Trust
Harry & Ellie Poehlmann
Sei Solo Foundation
Virginia Hill Charitable Foundation
SCFD

For more information contact Director of Education and Community Engagement Fernanda Nieto: fernanda@boulderphil.org

Discovery Concerts Through the Years

For over 10 years Boulder Philharmonic’s Discovery Concerts have taken students in grades 3-6 on a journey to explore orchestral music in a fun and interactive format. Students have attended a 50-minute performance during the school day designed to engage, inspire and enrich their love for music. Our concert program and educational curriculum are crafted to support the learning objectives of the National Coalition for Core Standards and the Colorado State Standards.

Previous Discovery Concert themes have explored a wide variety of topics: the connection between literacy and music, the intersection between music and visual arts, and how our emotions can be expressed with music. Throughout the years we have developed a comprehensive program that supports teachers in the classroom by providing them with a curriculum guide, several lesson plans, and a Spotify Playlist of repertoire. In preparation for the concert, teachers and students can also enjoy a visit from conductor Michael Butterman or one of our distinguished chamber ensembles. Every year we are proud to reach and connect with over 5,000 students and educators from across Boulder Country and beyond