Seattle Chamber Music Truck brings live music to Coachella Valley students

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) - Classical music is rolling into the Coachella Valley, giving local students a chance to experience live performances right outside their schools.

The Seattle Chamber Music Truck is visiting the valley this week, bringing musicians and their instruments to students through a program funded by Palm Springs Friends of the Philharmonic.

The mobile concert stage opens from the side of a truck, allowing musicians to perform in school settings and make classical music more accessible to young audiences.

“I feel great, like my ears wiggle when I hear the music,” said Henry, a first grader who attended the performance.

Susan Zhang, director of the Concert Truck, said introducing children to classical music early can create lasting connections.

“When you have these kinds of positive associations with this music at a young age, that can last you for a lifetime,” Zhang said.

Palm Springs Friends of the Philharmonic launched its education program last year to expand music opportunities for students in the Palm Springs and Desert Sands unified school districts.

The Concert Truck will also visit VillageFest in downtown Palm Springs on Thursday, with performances scheduled for 6 and 7 p.m.