PhilKids

A visionary program to empower kids through music.

Thanks to the vision and support of longtime Calgary Philharmonic supporter Judith Kilbourne, we launched a meaningful after-school music program called PhilKids in 2015.

PhilKids is designed to fuel and support the empowerment of children through the exploration of music. It offers elementary students, ages six to 11, the opportunity to learn directly from Orchestra musicians. Teachers quickly develop a rapport of trust and respect with their students through close work two schools once per week over the school months.

“Having the opportunity to study music has shown to have intellectual and developmental benefits to your children that no other activity provides.”
— Paul Dornian, Former President + CEO, Calgary Philharmonic

“It’s always wonderful to walk into a room where you see children are engaged and curious. I can see the long-term effects of what the teachers, staff, and musicians have created. They have created a space for these students where their imagination and curiosity for the world is supported and encouraged.”
— Cellist Yo-Yo Ma, on PhilKids

What’s Involved

Bucket Band
Students learn rhythms and how to play in unison by performing on hardware store buckets. This class provides framework for young students teamwork and attentiveness through play.

Instrument Instruction
PhilKids have been back in person full time since the 2022 season and play on violin, flute, percussion, trumpet, cello, and violin!

Musicianship
Students learn everything from the names of the instruments to the notes on a staff through traditional and game-based learning with a Calgary Philharmonic musician.

Participating Schools

PhilKids Teacher Roster

2023-2024 Teacher Roster coming soon!

Here's How You Can Help

  • Provide instruments for one year $7,000
  • Sponsor a child in PhilKids for one year $1,000
  • Music books for PhilKids $750
  • Uniforms for PhilKids (T-shirts) $600
  • Guest musicians $400
  • Buckets for the PhilKids bucket band $250
  • After-school nutrition for 50 kids each week $100
  • Program expenses All donations appreciated

Any amount is accepted and appreciated. Donations over $20 will receive a charitable tax receipt.

Contact

To learn more about PhilKids, and how you can join us to help have a positive impact on the bright futures of these children, email [email protected].

For donation inquiries, please contact:
Barbara Soles
Senior Development Officer
403.571.0849

Donate to PhilKids

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Contact

To learn more about PhilKids, and how you can join us to help have a positive impact on the bright futures of these children, email [email protected].

For donation inquiries, please contact:
Barbara Soles
Senior Development Officer
403.571.0849

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