The Waterbury Symphony Orchestra (WSO) has received a grant from The CommunityFoundation of Northwest Connecticut in support of its upcoming “Side-by-Side” concert on February 8, 2014 at the Litchfield Intermediate School. Funds from the grant will support a public performance which features 20 area student musicians playing alongside the professional musicians of the WSO. Under the direction of three WSO professional teaching artists, students will have recently completed ten weeks of instruction in musicianship and ensemble skills through an annual collaboration between the WSO and ASAP (After School Arts Program) of Washington, CT.

“Due to the generosity of The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut, each of these local high school string musicians has the opportunity to engage in one-on-one rehearsal and concert experiences with a seasoned professional musician. This experience can have a huge influence in motivating young musicians to exceed their boundaries,” stated WSO Executive Director Steve Collins. “We are most grateful for the Community Foundation’s support in this endeavor.”

The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut awards grants to hundreds of nonprofits to support programs and services that improve communities through arts and culture, civic engagement, education, the environment, and health and human services.

For tickets to the performance, please call the WSO at (203) 574-4283 or purchase online atwww.waterburysymphony.org.