Emily Bilodeau grew up in Montgomery County, where she received what she calls "an excellent classical music education in the public school system." When the School District of Philadelphia announced the "Doomsday" budget cuts it would be forced to make for the 2013-14 school year, Emily was saddened to hear that arts and music education were among those programs to be cut. She believed that every child deserves the same chance she had to learn about and appreciate the arts, and so she decided to take action.

Emily began reaching out to different organizations and individuals and eventually teamed up with ensembles from Drexel University and the Curtis Institute of Music. On Saturday, March 15th, musicians from these organizations will perform a free concert that introduces young children to classical music and instruments. The musicians will talk about their own experiences with music and discuss the paths that led them all to take up classical music. It is Emily's hope that the concert will help young children develop an interest in classical music, fostering the next generation of classical music patrons and participants.

The event is geared towards children ages 5-10, but families and children of all ages are welcome! There is an RSVP, so be sure to sign-up for this great afternoon of music and learning!