September just happens to be Classical Music Month, and we think there’s no better time to enjoy some soul-soothing sounds of a symphony. If you worry that your kids might not find much interest in a classical concert, have no fear. There are plenty of very exciting concerts coming up in Austin. From free events in the park to concerts featuring movie music from Harry Potter & Star Wars films — and even a costumed Halloween concert for kids — there’s lots of Family Friendly Fall Symphonies to enjoy!
Fall Concerts in the Park – Landmark Musicals @ Zilker Hillside Theatre
Sunday, September 17, 7 p.m.
The Austin Symphonic Band presents its annual Fall concert in Zilker Park, featuring marches and musicals. This concert will include selections from four of the greatest musicals of all time: West Side Story, A Chorus Line, Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera. Spread your blanket on the hillside and enjoy. Free!
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone In Concert @ Bass Concert Hall
Saturday, Sept. 23 at 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, Sept. 24 at 1p.m.
A truly magical Harry Potter fan experience! A full showing of the film on a giant high-definition screen with the unforgettable John Williams score performed live by the Austin Symphony Orchestra! Tickets start at $36.50 and can be purchased online here.
Made in America: The Composer Is Dead @ AISD Performing Arts Center
Sunday, September 24, 4 p.m. (pre-show petting zoo at 3:25 p.m.)
The ACO opens its 2017-2018 season, Made in America, with the amusing “whodunit”, The Composer is Dead!, by Nathaniel Stookey with text by Lemony Snicket, featuring narrator Paul Gaffney. Also featured on this concert will be music by Leonard Bernstein, Duke Ellington, and Aaron Copland. This fun program along with a pre-concert instrument petting zoo, which begins at 3:15 p.m. in the lobby, is the perfect family outing for all ages. RSVP here.
Free Movie & Music in the Park: Monsters, Inc. @ Mueller Lake Park
Saturday, Sept. 30, 7:30 p.m.
Grammy Award winning McCallum Orchestra will play movie music through the years set to a movie montage that will feature old favorites along with new arrangements and movies. You won’t want to miss it! The concert starts just after dusk and immediately following will be free screening of Monsters, Inc. Food trailers and a concession booth will be on hand starting at 6 pm, so bring your blankets, family & friends, and your appetites! A portion of the food sales will benefit the McCallum Orchestra.
Mueller Lake Park makes a perfect setting for McCallum’s Annual Free Concert for Families
Star Wars: A New Hope — Screening & Live Score @ Long Center
Wednesday, October 11 & Thursday, October 12, 7:30 p.m. (both nights)
Join the Long Center for this special presentation of Star Wars: A New Hope, a screening of the film brought to life with live score featuring the Austin Symphony Orchestra in honor of the legendary film’s 40th Anniversary. Tickets start at $39, which you can purchase here. Click here to enter to win tickets!
Disney Fantasia – Live In Concert @ Long Center
Friday, October 20, 8 p.m.
Watch iconic moments from Disney’s Fantasia, such as Mickey Mouse as he dabbles in magic in Dukas’ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and the mythical unicorns and winged horses that accompany Beethoven’s ‘Pastoral’ Symphony on the big screen while Austin Symphony Orchestra plays live. Ticket start at $23 and can be purchased online here.
Halloween Children’s Concert @ AISD Performing Arts Center
Sunday, October 29 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
It’s creepy, crawly and so much fun it’s spooky! The Austin Symphony presents this annual Halloween Children’s Concert with frightfully fun symphonic music that is stimulating for young eyes and ears (ages 2–10). The entire family is invited to dress up in their favorite costume and enjoy “boo-tiful” music with their Austin Symphony Orchestra! Tickets start at $14 and can be purchased online here.
The Halloween Children’s Concert is always a treat. Photo Credit: 2011 Austin Symphony Orchestra
