Cascade Symphony Orchestra receives grants for music education, outreach

The Cascade Symphony Orchestra has received $22,500 in grants from the Hazel Miller Foundation and the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation to enhance music education and outreach efforts in 2025. The Hazel Miller Foundation awarded $10,000 to support programs like the Gold Medalist Program, which connects exceptional high school string players with professional musicians. The Paul G. Allen Foundation’s $12,500 grant focuses on community initiatives administered by the ArtsFund.

Edward Benyas, the orchestra’s executive director, highlighted the importance of this support in a recent announcement. The Rising Star Competition encourages talented pre-college musicians to pursue music, allowing standout performers to play alongside the orchestra. These programs not only enrich the local music scene but also provide scholarships for students attending the Edmonds School District’s Summer Music School. Tam Osborne from the district emphasized the orchestra's role in enhancing music education and providing financial support to students. The Cascade Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1962, is South Snohomish County's oldest community orchestra and aims to bring classical music to the community.