Wilmington Symphony Orchestra, DREAMS partner with Ben Folds’ Keys for Kids
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra and DREAMS Center for Arts Education are partnering with Ben Folds’ Keys for Kids initiative to expand access to music education for students across the region.
The collaboration, also supported by the North Carolina Arts Council and the North Carolina Arts Foundation, aims to create a pathway for young musicians from beginner instruction to more advanced performance opportunities.
Keys for Kids, founded by Folds, supports nonprofits in North Carolina that provide music education opportunities for young people.
Under the program, students will begin their musical training at the DREAMS Center for Arts Education, where they will receive foundational instruction in an afterschool setting. As they advance, students will transition into programs with the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra for expanded instruction and performance experience.
Participants will also have the opportunity to join the Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestras chamber ensembles, allowing them to develop ensemble skills and perform at a higher level.
Students in the program and their families will receive free tickets to Wilmington Symphony Orchestra and youth orchestra concerts, providing additional exposure to live performances.
“This partnership represents a shared commitment to making music education accessible, inclusive, and inspiring,” said Liz Scanlon, executive director of the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra.
Folds said the collaboration aligns with his initiative’s mission to bring music education to young people who might not otherwise have access.
“Speaking from first-hand experience, my middle school field trips to museums and the symphony, as well as having a chance to perform in the youth orchestra, greatly influenced my own creative journey to becoming a music artist,” he said.
Organizers say the partnership is designed to expand access to afterschool programming that supports creativity, discipline and self-expression.
The organizations are also inviting the public to attend a performance by Folds on May 30 at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh. A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Keys for Kids program.
