Taking instrumental music lessons can be a rewarding and a lifelong project to learn more about classical music. Most of the instruments played in symphonic music are strings and these instruments typically take years to master. Orchestras also require wind, percussion and brass instruments and musicians have plenty of literature in the classical genre from which to choose. Besides learning an instrument, the discipline and skills you develop transfer to other areas of life. According to the National Association for Music Education, music students achieve higher scores on nationalized tests and learn teamwork.
Listening to classical music can improve brain function and alertness. If your job allows, you can listen to classical music at work or use an electronic device with headphones so you do not disturb anyone else. When you are at home, listen to the music as you go about your activities. You can also schedule family listening nights. You can teach yourself and your children more about classical music by reading the program notes included in the CD or research the composition at the local library or online and share the information with your family.
One of the best ways to support classical music in your community and benefit from an orchestra's presence is to go to concerts. Symphonic organizations sell season tickets or tickets for individual concerts. If you want to minimize the costs associated with attending live concerts, volunteer to usher or take tickets as a seasonal project. You can also consider attending high school or honors' concerts presented by public schools that do not require tickets, but do use volunteers to help usher. Local school music departments are a good source of information regarding when and where the orchestras have public performances and volunteer opportunities.
Fundraising activities help sustain orchestras that play classical music, because few orchestras exist on ticket sales alone. Most community-based orchestras do not produce much, if any, revenue through CD sales. The Symphony of the Southwest, located in the Phoenix metro area, organizes an annual fundraiser in February called Chocolate Sunday. Retailers donate door prizes, many small desserts and all kinds of chocolates. The symphony charges an entrance fee, but all the treats, beverages and prizes are complimentary. Other fundraising projects can involve organizing formal dinners and silent auctions where the patrons pay for the dinner and bid on donated goods from benefactors.