MPO's 'American Soundscapes' Concert Offers Inclusive Experience

Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra closes 2025-26 season with free, family-friendly show on April 8 before ticketed performance on April 9.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:53pm

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A bold, abstract illustration featuring stark, geometric shapes and silhouettes in high-contrast colors, conceptually representing the inclusive and welcoming spirit of the Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra's 'American Soundscapes' concert.The Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra's inclusive 'American Soundscapes' concert celebrates the power of music to bring a diverse community together.Springfield Today

The Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra is offering a free, inclusive concert on April 8 for those who may struggle to sit through a traditional classical performance. The 'American Soundscapes: On the Open Road' show will be followed by a ticketed performance on April 9, featuring a program of music connected to the Midwest region and celebrating the Route 66 Centennial.

Why it matters

The MPO's inclusive concert aims to make live music accessible to a wider audience, including children and those with sensory needs who may have difficulty attending traditional classical performances. By creating a welcoming environment, the orchestra hopes to foster a love of music in the community.

The details

The free concert on April 8 will start at 6:30 p.m. and allow attendees to move around, make noise, and tend to their needs without disrupting others. The ticketed performance on April 9 at 7:30 p.m. will feature works by composers like Gershwin, Joplin, and Haydn, as well as a solo performance by Missouri State University student cellist Margaret Dodson.

  • The free inclusive concert is on April 8 at 6:30 p.m.
  • The ticketed 'American Soundscapes' performance is on April 9 at 7:30 p.m.

The players

Amy Andreassen

Director and principal conductor of the Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra.

Dr. Christopher Koch

Helped launch the Springfield-Drury Civic Orchestra 21 years ago, which later became the Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra.

Margaret Dodson

Missouri State University student cellist who will perform with the Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra.

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What they’re saying

“That first concert of the series is for people who cannot sit still or quietly, because I realize there's this whole section of our community who cannot attend live performances because of noises they make.”

— Amy Andreassen, Director and principal conductor, Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra

“We have members from Buffalo, Bolivar and as far away as the Hollister and Branson area that travel to play with us, so it's pretty wide-ranging.”

— Amy Andreassen, Director and principal conductor, Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra

What’s next

The Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra will continue its 2025-26 season with additional concerts, including a spooky show in October and a love-themed show in February.

The takeaway

The Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra's inclusive concert demonstrates a commitment to making live music accessible to all members of the community, regardless of their ability to sit quietly through a traditional performance. This approach helps foster a love of music and brings people together around a shared cultural experience.