More Than Music

Making Every Concert an Experience

At Denver Philharmonic Orchestra (DPO), we believe that classical music is more than just a performance—it’s an opportunity to connect, engage, and create lasting memories. That’s why we’re proud to present More Than Music, an innovative program that transforms the concert-going experience into a multifaceted celebration of community, culture, and creativity.

More Than Music goes beyond the stage, offering a range of interactive and thematic activities uniquely tied to each concert’s theme. From pre-concert chats and hands-on demonstrations to cultural showcases and live tastings, every event is designed to immerse you in a deeper, more vibrant experience. We also partner with local nonprofits and community organizations to bridge the gap between music, culture, and the broader community.

Whether it’s enjoying a salsa tasting before a Latin-inspired program, learning about local nonprofits making a difference, or submitting your favorite hiking photos for a concert-themed slideshow, More Than Music creates an immersive atmosphere where every concert is not just heard but experienced.

Through creativity, community, and collaboration, we invite you to explore the art of music in exciting new ways and become part of a vibrant cultural celebration that unites Denver’s diverse voices and talents.

We believe that music should be interactive and inclusive, and our More Than Music activities are designed to do just that. From pre-concert chats with our conductors to tastings, arts demonstrations, and hands-on workshops, every DPO performance is enhanced by fun and engaging experiences. These activities allow our audience to explore the music, engage with the community, and celebrate creativity in a way that makes each concert memorable and unique.

Instrument Petting Zoo

A hands-on experience where you can try playing various musical instruments with guidance from musicians.

Pre-Concert Chats

Gain insight into the program’s music, explore its history and cultural context, and learn what to listen for before the concert begins.

Visit from Santa

A Holiday Cheer staple, enjoy a festive photo opportunity with Santa Claus before the concert and during intermission, creating lasting holiday memories with the whole family.

Arts & Crafts

Creative, hands-on activities for all ages, where you can make themed art and crafts inspired by the concert.

Games

Enjoy a variety of fun games before or after the concert, including mini golf, traditional lawn games, board games, and more!

Costumes

Our concerts almost always feature a theme, so feel free to dress accordingly! Whether it’s spooky Halloween attire, ugly sweaters for Holiday Cheer!, or old west clothes for a western-themed concert, costumes add fun and excitement for all ages.

Tastings

Enjoy curated tastings of food and drinks, such as tequila, craft beer, and local salsas, tied to the concert’s theme.

Live Reading

Meet the author and enjoy a live reading of a book inspired by the concert’s theme. This engaging session brings the story to life, offering a unique pre-concert experience that connects literature and music in a memorable way.

At the heart of our More Than Music initiative is a deep commitment to community collaboration. By partnering with local businesses, cultural organizations, and nonprofits, we create opportunities to enrich the concert experience and support Denver’s vibrant cultural ecosystem. These partnerships help us bring classical music to life in unexpected and meaningful ways, allowing us to foster connections, celebrate diversity, and engage with new audiences.

Service Dog Training

We’re proud to partner with Domino Service Dogs, welcoming their amazing pups to our concerts! These tail-wagging VIPs are service dogs in training, learning to become life-changing companions for people with disabilities.

El Sistema

We’re proud to be part of the El Sistema Colorado mentorship program, where a few of our musicians volunteer to teach and inspire young musicians in the community. El Sistema empowers children through orchestral music, and their performances at our concerts showcase the incredible talent and potential of these budding artists.

Diebolt Brewing

Our incredible friends at Diebolt Brewing offer craft beers at our concerts and host special events like our Oktoberfest fundraiser. They also graciously open their doors for some of our sectional rehearsals, fostering a deeper connection between local brewers and musicians while supporting the arts in our community.

Local Nonprofits

Engage with local nonprofits and companies making a positive impact in our community. From Dress for Success, which empowers individuals with professional attire, to SAME Cafe, which serves meals to those in need, we proudly partner with organizations that support growth, opportunity, and inclusivity.