Explore the Orchestra: Meet the Endangered Instruments This July School Holidays

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Fri 17 Jul 2026

Looking for a fun, screen-free school holiday outing that the whole family will love?

This July, the Canberra Symphony Orchestra's much-loved Explore the Orchestra concerts are back after a sell-out 2025 - and they're perfect for little ones from babies through to 9-year-olds.

Friday 17 July 2026 – 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Ainslie Arts Centre
Tickets from $20 | Family pass $70 | Under 12 months free

+ What is Explore the Orchestra?
Imagine your child's face lighting up as they hear live violins, flutes, trumpets and drums right in front of them - and then get to try some instruments themselves.

These relaxed, family-friendly concerts are a joyful introduction to live orchestral music, designed especially for:
• Babies and toddlers
• Preschoolers
• Primary-aged children up to 9 years

Children are encouraged to move, clap, dance and sing along. It's the perfect first concert experience - no need to worry if your little one is wriggly or noisy!

+ A hands-on 'Instrument Petting Zoo'
Before each concert, families can visit the Instrument Petting Zoo - a special interactive session where children can:
• Get up close to real orchestral instruments
• Hear the different sounds they make
• Try a few themselves with guidance from friendly CSO musicians

It’s a wonderful way to spark curiosity, build confidence, and nurture a lifelong love of music.

Session times
9:00 am session
9:00 am - 9:30 am: Instrument Petting Zoo
9:30 am - 10:15 am: Concert with CSO musicians

11:00 am session
11:00 am - 11:30 am: Instrument Petting Zoo
11:30 am - 12:15 pm: Concert with CSO musicians

Total duration for each session: approximately 2 hours.

+ Created with families in mind
Explore the Orchestra is designed to be inclusive, welcoming and relaxed, with:
• Auslan interpreters provided
• Flexible seating and a movement-friendly format
• A warm, family-friendly environment where fun comes first

Bring a cushion, get comfy on the floor, and enjoy the music together.

+ Why parents love this event
• A screen-free morning out that still feels special and exciting
• Perfect for siblings of different ages (0–9 years)
• Easy, all-weather activity - no matter what Canberra's winter is doing outside
• Builds children’s confidence and creativity through music and play

Many families returned year after year, which is why Explore the Orchestra sold out in 2025. If you missed out last time (or loved it and want to come again), this is your chance.

+ Ticket information
General admission: $20
Family ticket (2 adults, 2 children): $70
Under 12 months: Free
A small transaction fee applies.

Don’t miss out – book your spot
With only two sessions on Friday, 17 July, places are limited and this event has sold out before.

Book now to secure your preferred session (9:00 am or 11:00 am) and give your children a magical, musical school holiday experience.

It's the perfect winter outing for mums’ groups, playgroup friends or a special family morning together.

Tickets on sale at cso.org.au
Discover more at cso.org.au I Facebook I Instagram

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