Symphony School

The Cedar Rapids Symphony School was established in 1986 to provide
high quality string instruction to young music students in the greater
Cedar Rapids area. Over the years, the Symphony School has expanded to include many facets of music education including early childhood programs, choral and instrumental ensembles, chamber ensembles and individual instruction on nearly all instruments for all ages. The Symphony School faculty is made up of many of Eastern Iowa’s most gifted educators, including Orchestra Iowa musicians and current and retired area public school teachers.

In 2008, Orchestra Iowa and National Public Radio’s From the Top teamed up to launch an exciting multi-year partnership—Iowa Makes Music. Consisting of live tapings of the popular radio show, a leadership program for teenage Iowa musicians, statewide contests, and in-school outreach programs conducted by Orchestra Iowa ensembles, Iowa Makes Music connects the best in classical music with students across the state.