FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2026
Contact: Jenni Shrum,
Director of Marketing & Public Relations
(405) 231-0145
jenni@okcphil.org
Discovery Concert Experience Photos
“Family-friendly concert brings favorite movie music, classical surprises and the excitement of a live orchestra to the Civic Center Music Hall”
OKLAHOMA CITY — What happens when a full symphony orchestra becomes your guide on an adventure filled with heroes, surprises and a little musical mischief?
Families can find out Sunday, Sept. 20, when the Oklahoma City Philharmonic presents Phil’s Great Symphonic Adventure, the first concert of its 2026-2027 Discovery Family Series. The performance begins at 2 p.m. at Civic Center Music Hall, with free pre-concert activities beginning at 1 p.m.
Designed especially for young audiences and their families, Phil’s Great Symphonic Adventure introduces children to the excitement of a live orchestra through music they may already know and love alongside some of classical music’s greatest hits.
Led by conductor Caroline Hand, the approximately one-hour concert takes families on a musical journey featuring selections from E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Toy Story, and Moana, along with works by composers including Joseph Haydn, Edvard Grieg, and Camille Saint-Saëns.
Children will discover just how much a symphony orchestra can do, from creating suspense and making us laugh to transporting us to another world entirely.
“Discovery concerts provide children the opportunity to experience the orchestra in a way that feels welcoming, exciting and made especially for them,“ said Brent Hart, Executive Director of the OKCPHIL. “There is something inspirational about watching a child experience the sights and sounds of a full orchestra for the first time. We hope families leave fueled with curiosity about music and excited to return for another concert adventure.”
The Adventure Starts Before the Concert
Families are encouraged to arrive at 1 p.m. for an hour of free pre-concert activities throughout the Civic Center Music Hall.
Children can get an up-close introduction to orchestral instruments at OKCPHIL’s popular Instrument Playground, along with crafts, games, and activities presented with community partners.
Then at 2 p.m. families head into the concert hall as the Oklahoma City Philharmonic takes the stage.
The Discovery Family Series is created with young concertgoers in mind, making it an ideal introduction to live orchestral music. The concerts are approximately one hour long, allowing families to experience the excitement of the symphony in a format designed to keep children engaged.
More Family Adventures Ahead
Phil’s Great Symphonic Adventure launches a three-concert Discovery Family Series continuing throughout the 2026-2027 season:
Phil’s Great Symphonic Adventure
Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026 | 2 p.m.
Exploring the Sounds of Our City
Sunday, Feb. 7, 2027 | 2 p.m.
Musical Wonders: What Makes Music Magical
Sunday, May 16, 2027 | 2 p.m.
All Discovery Family Series performances take place at the Civic Center Music Hall, with pre-concert activities beginning at 1 p.m.
Three-concert subscriptions are available for $32 per person, and individual concert tickets are $11.
For tickets and additional information, visit okcphil.org or contact the OKCPHIL Box Office at (405) 842-5387 or tickets@okcphil.org.
About the Oklahoma City Philharmonic
Founded in 1988, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic has inspired audiences for more than three decades through exceptional orchestral performances, innovative programming, and meaningful community engagement. Under the direction of Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate, the orchestra presents Classics, The Chickasaw Nation Pops, Discovery Family Concerts, and a wide range of educational and community performances. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic’s mission is to provide musical experiences that inspire, connect, and strengthen our community, ensuring the transformative power of music is accessible to everyone. For more information, contact us at okcphil.org, 501 Couch Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73102.
For more information, visit okcphil.org.
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