"Know Your Org" is an informational series designed to spotlight some of the wonderful organizations in our community. This month, we are highlighting Michigan Philharmonic.
The Michigan Philharmonic has been going strong for 81 years, with roots nearby, in Plymouth. Their mission is to bring classical music to Southeast Michigan through concerts and youth musical education outreach programs. However, they don’t just play the classics; they work to bring innovative classical music to life in ways that resonate with today’s audiences, especially younger generations.
“I don’t mind admitting that I learned a lot of classical music watching Bugs Bunny,” said Nan Washburn, Music Director and Conductor for the past 28 seasons. “Classical music was much easier to find then than it is now.”
“I think it’s become more important for orchestras to be more inclusive in their kind of programming; be more diverse and feature American composers. It’s important for audiences to hear new music. We try and bring in composers when we play their pieces so they can talk pre-concert and the audience can ask questions. It adds to the excitement to have the living composer right there.”
One of the secrets to their success has been their ability to pivot with the times while continuing to serve the community. For example, during COVID, when most orchestras shut down, they found ways to keep going, such as holding outdoor concerts and drawing on their vast video collection to share with subscribers.
“We offer some different things than other orchestras,” shared Nan, who has 19 ASCAP Awards for Adventurous Programming from the League of American Orchestras. “We’ve had fusion festivals. A recent concert featured a Chinese AHU player and Taiko drums. And then we do more standard repertoire but in more intimate settings, which are a good first-time experience for people because it’s an affordable option and we’re a friendly bunch.”
Philharmonic Youth Programs
Another way they give back to the community is through their youth programs. They offer a CLASSical Music Outreach Program that introduces 3rd- and 4th-graders to classical music and orchestral instruments. The 3rd-graders all get an in-class demonstration by a quintet of professional Michigan Philharmonic musicians, featuring string, woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. This gets musicians in front of about 10,000 kids, explaining how the instruments work.
The fourth graders get an in-class solo demonstration as a preview of the upcoming Koncert for Kids, which takes place at the end of May each year. This concert features approximately 25 players in a 45-minute program geared to their age group. It includes various concert pieces along with educational information about the different instrument families, composers, the composition process and how to conduct an orchestra. Schools can opt in to integrate 4th-grade recorder programs and have the kids play along with the orchestra’s rendition of Ode to Joy.
They also run a Youth Orchestra program for kids from age 8 through high school. The kids audition to be in one of the four ensembles Michigan Philharmonic currently offers: a wind ensemble, two string ensembles and a full youth symphony. They do several concerts a year, including a “side-by-side” performance with the Michigan Philharmonic.
“This really is a fun program,” said Nan. “They have the opportunity to do a side-by-side performance where they get to sit right next to a pro and perform with them.”
Something for Everyone
Whether you’re a grade-schooler, senior citizen or somewhere in between, the Michigan Philharmonic has something to offer for you. They have roughly 70 musicians, but adjust their lineup to fit whatever venue they are playing in. They don’t have a specific place to play, so they adapt their size to the space they are in, from a full orchestra to a small chamber music group.
“We actually move around a lot,” said Nan. “But in 2026, we’ll be focusing a little bit more on a couple of venues. One is the Plymouth First United Methodist Church, and the other is the Hawk Theater in Farmington Hills. And then we also do a concert at St. John’s Chapel in Plymouth, one in Kensington Metro Park and, in January, one at the DIA in the Diego courtyard.”
This is your chance to see an innovative, quality orchestra based right in our community. They’ve won numerous awards, including the 2025 American Prize First Place in Orchestral Performance – Professional Division.
“It’s very competitive, and it’s a national award,” said Nan. “It’s really nice to be recognized for musical excellence.”
If you’d like to support the Michigan Philharmonic beyond attending their events, you can make additional financial donations or volunteer.
Add a comment to: Know Your Org: Michigan Philharmonic