Orchestra fuses music and movement with free August event series

Art

Jul 23

Photo courtesy of Holland Symphony Orchestra

The Holland Symphony Orchestra (HSO) is hosting a weeklong celebration of free events combining music and movement from August 6 through 10. The free Music Moves Us summer series features dance demonstrations and classes in a variety of music styles, including swing, Dutch Dance, Zumba, and more, with activities designed for all ages.

The family-friendly events are designed to engage the community, with several activities focused on children, such as Polynesian dance lessons and a kids’ GROOVE dance party. A sensory-friendly art and music experience will also be available for children with sensory needs. For the first time in Holland State Park history, salsa lessons will be held on the beach. Additionally, yoga enthusiasts can enjoy a serene yoga session paired with a blissful sound bath at Tunnel Park.

“This multiday event is made possible with the support of the city of Holland and embraces the transformative power of music and movement to unite, enrich, and celebrate the diversity of our community in shared spaces of accessibility and enlightenment,” said Michael Naess, CEO/President, Holland Symphony Orchestra. “More than half of the events will be held at Kollen or Centennial city parks, and we are partnering with existing events such as the Downtown Street Performers and the Summer Concert Series. Additionally, we are collaborating with over 20 organizations, from I AM Academy to Evergreen Commons, to create a festival of accessible and inclusive activities drawing on the many talents of our community members that combine music and movement for the enjoyment of everyone.”

Music Moves Us originated from feedback following HSO's mariachi concert in 2021, which led to the "Music Unites Us" concert last year. Inspired by community requests for more, HSO has developed 10 events over five days, encompassing a variety of music and dance experiences. The week will culminate with the symphony’s Music Unites Us—Brazil! concert with the Brazilian folk trio Choro das 3 at Kollen Park on Aug. 10.

The concert is made possible by the sponsorship of Corewell Health, Macatawa Area Coordinating Council, Macatawa Bank, and Gentex, with support from the MillerKnoll Foundation and the Brooks Family Foundation.

Founded in 1990, the Holland Symphony Orchestra is a community-supported ensemble committed to engaging all people through music to enrich the cultural life of West Michigan. For a full list of events, visit https://hollandsymphony.org/events/.