Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Cincinnati Pops Announce Sensory-Friendly Concerts for 2026–27 Season  

CINCINNATI, OH (September 29, 2026)—The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Cincinnati Pops have announced two sensory-friendly concerts for the 2026–27 season: Lollipops Family Concert: Ferdinand the Bull and Access to Music. Launched in 2017, these inclusive concerts are open to all ages and feature a shorter concert format. They are designed to make orchestral music accessible for the entire community, building on the Orchestra’s belief that music lives in all of us – regardless of who we are or where we come from.

“We’re proud to present these two concerts as part of our programming this season,” said CSO’s The Honorable Nathaniel R. Jones Chief Inclusion Officer Harold Brown. “They reflect the Orchestra’s deep commitment to ensuring that audiences of all ages and abilities can experience the transformative power of music in a safe and inclusive environment. Music is for everyone, and we look forward to welcoming our community to these special concerts.”

On Saturday, October 10 at 2 p.m. the Pops brings the beloved story Ferdinand the Bull to life through music. Led by Assistant Conductor Duo Shen, the Lollipops Family Concert will include sensory-friendly elements including a designated quiet area, no restrictions on noise or movement and a social narrative available online to help attendees prepare for the concert. Partnering with community organizations including Cincinnati Children's, the Ken Anderson Alliance and Visionaries and Voices, this concert is the perfect introduction to the Orchestra for young listeners.

On Saturday, April 24, 2027, at 2 p.m. Access to Music celebrates the connection between music and the mind. In partnership with The Well, a Cincinnati-based national non-profit, the annual sensory-friendly concert explores how music shapes thoughts, emotions and interactions while creating a safe and welcoming environment. Pre-concert activities will feature community organization resources and a Mindful Music Moment led by The Well. The concert provides an opportunity for people of all ages to experience orchestral music in their own unique way.

Tickets to both concerts can now be purchased online or by calling the CSO Box Office at 513.381.3300. Tickets can also be bought in-person at 1241 Elm St. Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. The box office is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

BIOGRAPHIES: Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops

Connect with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Latest News

The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Cincinnati Pops gratefully acknowledge support from:

All programs, artists, dates and prices are subject to change.  

###