Enriching Hartford, CT with Live Music Performances

Our state capital, Hartford, was settled in 1636. The colonists who settled in this area had big dreams for their new home. Most of those dreams were realized as Hartford, CT continues to flourish centuries later. In 1934, The Hartford Symphony Orchestra was founded with a vision of fostering a joy for music within our community. Our original musicians sought to engage the Hartford community and enlighten them with the transformative power of music. Today, we stay true to our vision and continue to evolve and maintain the highest standards of orchestral music performance.

Our dedication to the Hartford, CT community has prompted our recognition as one of the top places to visit in Hartford. Whether you are a long-term resident or a visitor, attending one of our live musical performances is an absolute must. We cater to a range of audiences, offering a variety of music events sure to delight everyone. As a way to give back to our community, we even offer a music education program to help foster a love for music in students.

Our Music Education Programs

The Hartford Symphony Orchestra is committed to making music education accessible to students of all ages throughout Hartford, CT and the surrounding communities. Through our Learning & Social Impact initiatives, our orchestra partners with local schools to bring professional musicians directly into classrooms for engaging performances, instrument demonstrations, and interactive discussions. These programs help students explore orchestral music while reinforcing classroom learning, creating meaningful experiences that encourage creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong appreciation for music.

In addition to in-school programming, we offer a variety of educational opportunities, including the Discovery Concert Series, Link Up with Carnegie Hall, chamber ensemble performances, and the Young Artists Competition for Connecticut high school students. Families can also enjoy hands-on experiences through the Instrument Discovery Lab, where children have the opportunity to try orchestral instruments and participate in music-themed activities. Together, these programs support music education across the region while making live orchestral music welcoming and engaging for new audiences.

Year-Round Music Events

The Hartford Symphony Orchestra presents a year-round calendar of music events designed to appeal to a wide variety of audiences. From the acclaimed Masterworks Series featuring classical repertoire to POPS! concerts, Talcott Mountain Music Festival performances, and special seasonal events, there are opportunities to experience orchestral music in a range of settings throughout the year. Whether you’re planning an evening out or introducing your family to live orchestral performances, the HSO offers concerts featuring both timeless classics and contemporary music.

Beyond our traditional concert series, we expand our programming through HSO Extended events, community concerts, and family-friendly performances held throughout Greater Hartford. These events feature a variety of musical styles, collaborations with local organizations, and performances in unique venues that make live music more accessible across the community. Visitors can also explore subscription options, special events, and regularly updated concert schedules to enjoy live performances throughout the season.

Live Music at the Hartford Symphony Orchestra

Experiencing live music with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra means enjoying performances by talented musicians in welcoming venues throughout the Hartford area. Our orchestra presents a diverse selection of concerts, from beloved orchestral masterworks and popular movie scores to contemporary programs and outdoor summer performances. Every concert brings audiences together through the shared experience of live music while showcasing the artistry and versatility of the orchestra.

We’re proud to be an important part of Hartford’s cultural community, continuing our mission to inspire and connect people through live performances. Guests can enjoy concerts at venues including The Bushnell and other locations across the region, with convenient ticketing, subscription packages, and special events throughout the year. Whether you’re a longtime concertgoer or attending for the first time, live music with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra offers memorable experiences for audiences of all ages.

Learn About Our Upcoming Events & Purchase Orchestra Tickets

We welcome you to review our upcoming events and purchase orchestra tickets. For more than 90 years, we have inspired Hartford, CT with our live music performances, and we look forward to many more years engaging with our community. Purchase your orchestra tickets today and join us at our next event!