The Augusta Symphony is proud to accept a grant from Bank of America for its Community Chords Education Outreach programming. the August Symphony and Bank of America had a rich history of partnership and support lasting over 30 years. Through a grant from Bank of America, the Augusta Symphony will be able to continue its education and outreach throughout the CSRA. 

Community Chords brings performances and demonstrations by Symphony musicians directly to learners in Richmond, columbia, McDuffie, Edefield, and Aiken Counties. In each Classroom Concert, Symphony musicians offer engaging interactive performances for CSRA students. Based on the needs of the educator and the size and age of the group, Classroom Concerts may feature small ensembles, duets, or soloists. 

"We are committed to the arts and continuing our partnership wiht the Augusta Symphony," said Ora Parish, president, Bank of America Augusta-Aiken. "By supporting programs like Community Chords, we provide access to art and culture that offer social and educational benefits for the region."

Augusta Symphony 2nd Trombone, Justin Isenhour stated that he beilieves it's essential for orchestral musicians to engage with the community beyond the concert hall. "Initiatives like Community Chords Outreach help build meaningful connections with the local community and make the concert-going experience more accessible. Many of the students we vist lack the resources or family support to attend performances like those at the Augusta Symphony in the Miller Theater. By bringing the music to them, we plant seeds that might blossom into a lifelong appreciation of the arts. It's encouraging to also see teachers and administrators actively listening, smiling, and observing how we engage with their students."

The Augusta Symphony's annual Discovery Concert is also an integral part of Community Chords Education Outreach. This concert provides over 1,000 elementary, middle, and high school students, including homeschoolers, with opportunities, to experience a free live symphonic performance. The 2024-25 Discovery Concert with take place on Friday, November 8, 2024, at 10:00 am at the historic Miller Theater. This season's concert with feature Disney World Epcot's Mariachi Cobre, an 11-piece ensemble playing alongside the Augusta Symphony. As ambassadors for Mariachi music, Mariachi Cobre musicians will not only keep learners engaged in the music experience, but also increase their knowledge and undderstanding of this unique style of folk music.