Outreach

Civic Orchestra of Tucson (COT) is committed to supporting and encouraging an appreciation for music—a desire to play, perform and listen to classical music—for all ages and abilities. In addition to free concerts throughout the greater Tucson area, COT offers four musical enrichment programs focusing on youth.

Lee Oler Young Artists’ Competition

The Young Artists’ Competition (YAC) began in 1984 at a time when it was the only event of its kind available solely to high school age students in southern Arizona. Renamed in 2024 in honor of Lee Oler, the musician who spearheaded the event, the Lee Oler Young Artists’ Competition is now in its 41st year.

All entrants perform for professional judges and receive written feedback. Winners in each category receive cash prizes. A few select winners will be asked to perform their solo/ensemble piece with the Civic Orchestra of Tucson in a concert. Two additional winners will receive the opportunity to rehearse their piece with the orchestra, in a 40-minute reading session.

The event provides each entrant a unique learning experience and introduction to the audition process in a supportive environment. To date, the Civic Orchestra of Tucson (COT) has hosted nearly 100 performances by students ranging from elementary to high-school age.

Musical Instrument Petting Zoos

In 1995, the Civic Orchestra of Tucson introduced the Musical Instrument Petting Zoos at special events around the community. The program was so well received, it was expanded to include schools, children’s programs, daycare/after-school care, city-sponsored events, art festivals, Rancho Sahuarita, Marana Parks and Recreation and the Children’s Museum of Tucson. Several musicians bring a selection of string and percussion instruments to the Musical Instrument Petting Zoo event. Our musicians help participants hold the instruments correctly to make a musical sound. Many children–and even some adults–have been inspired to learn a musical instrument after their first introduction at the Musical Instrument Petting Zoo! Depending on the needs of the participants, the Musical Instrument Petting Zoo may include a short presentation, musical performance, or a movement-oriented lesson.

The Miller Music Coaching Scholarship Fund

The Miller Music Coaching Scholarship fund was established to provide private coaching for students who would otherwise be unable to afford lessons. These coaching scholarships enable eligible student musicians to receive 20 private coaching sessions with local music teachers over a period of approximately 7-8 months. The Fund also covers music and accessories required for the lessons.

If the participating student wishes to enter the Lee Oler Young Artists’ Competition in January, the entry fee and accompanist payments for the competition are subsidized. The musical studies provided by the scholarship fund give students an opportunity to develop and grow as musicians and discover their potential in music. Serious musical study also teaches the ability to focus on a goal, overcome challenges, and showcase one’s achievements, all of which are indispensable skills that carry over to all walks of life/careers.

Inclusive Concert/Children’s Concert

Each spring the Civic Orchestra of Tucson (COT) presents a 1-hour inclusive concert/children’s concert in partnership with the Autism Society of Southern Arizona. All children are encouraged to attend this free program, including children who are neurodivergent or have developmental disabilities.