Experience one of Boulder’s most exciting children’s concerts with The Good, the Bad and the Music, a Curiosity Concert led by acclaimed conductor Devin Patrick Hughes. Presented by Extra Crispy Creatives and Boulder Symphony, this fun-filled performance blends classical, pop, and movie music with a kid-friendly storyline that brings music education to life. Featuring an instrument petting zoo and interactive storytelling, it’s the perfect musical adventure for families and young audiences.

Devin Patrick Hughes, founder and conductor of both Boulder Symphony and Symphony of the Rockies, shares his inspiring journey from Illinois to international podiums. In this vibrant feature, Devin opens up about discovering his passion at Grinnell College, building orchestras from scratch, and weathering the storms of the pandemic with creativity and community at the core.

Far from the traditional maestro stereotype, Devin is a symphonic entrepreneur who blends high-level artistry with a mission to make classical music radically inclusive. Whether leading concerts in concert halls or senior centers, launching education programs, or forming unexpected collaborations, he’s redefining what success means for a modern conductor: connection, impact, and thunderous brass at just the right moment.

The Boulder Symphony invites families to the lively Spring Curiosity Concert on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at 3 PM in eTown Hall, Boulder. These 45-minute shows spark wonder using interactive instruments, trivia, quirky characters, and enriched stories—all centered around the power and joy of live symphonic music.

Designed for music lovers of all ages, the concert encourages audience participation—kids (and parents!) can call out instruments for live demos and may even get a chance to conduct the orchestra. An instrument petting zoo welcomes curious minds before and after the performance, offering a hands-on experience.

Whether new to classical music or a seasoned fan, this concert promises education and entertainment from start to finish—a perfect experience for families looking to inspire creativity through music.

From the dramatic sweep of Beethoven to the cultural fusion of contemporary America, Devin Patrick Hughes, Artistic Director and Conductor of Symphony of the Rockies, is redefining what a conductor—and an orchestra—can be. Known for his bold programming, community outreach, and signature red shoes, Hughes blends tradition with innovation to make symphonic music more accessible, engaging, and emotionally resonant.

Drawing from his multicultural background, international training, and entrepreneurial mindset, Hughes has helped transform Symphony of the Rockies into a cultural hub. Through immersive concerts, multimedia experiences, and children’s discovery programs—originally developed by Extra Crispy Creatives, the organization he co-founded—Hughes is bridging classical music with modern American life.

Whether he's conducting Mozart, celebrating Brittany Green, or interviewing musical trailblazers on his podcast One Symphony, Hughes is on a mission to break down barriers and connect the orchestra to audiences of all ages.

On November 2, the Boulder Symphony invites families to experience The Creative Spirit, an original Día de los Muertos-themed Curiosity Concert designed for kids ages 4–12. Created by Extra Crispy Creatives, this whimsical and heartfelt performance follows a ghostly composer who returns to complete his final masterpiece—with help from the audience.

Blending classical favorites like Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 with popular hits by Radiohead and Kate Bush, the 45-minute concert includes interactive moments, singalongs, dancing, and even the chance for kids to conduct the orchestra. The concert features collaborations with the Niwot High School Mariachi Ensemble, Longmont Youth Symphony, and students from Boulder Symphony Music Academy.

With a pre-concert mini recital, post-show instrument petting zoo, and festive costumes encouraged, this is more than a concert—it’s a celebration of music, memory, and creativity for the whole family.

Symphony of the Rockies recently raised an unprecedented $96,000 at its sold-out annual gala in support of The Crescendo Project, the orchestra’s signature music education initiative. This powerful show of community support ensures that students across South Denver—regardless of background—have access to transformative musical opportunities.

The Crescendo Project includes mentorship, in-school enrichment, and Children’s Discovery Concerts—original educational performances developed by Extra Crispy Creatives, the imaginative team co-founded by Devin Patrick Hughes, who also serves as Symphony of the Rockies’ Artistic Director and Conductor. Hughes’ vision has helped transform the organization into a regional leader in accessibility, creativity, and community impact.

With programming ranging from classical masterpieces to video game scores, and a unique mix of professional musicians, educators, and pre-professionals, Symphony of the Rockies continues to build a future where music education is not a luxury—but a right.