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Des Moines Symphony News

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    What Happens in Your Brain When You Listen to Music? 07/13/2026 In Symphony News

    Have you ever felt a song instantly lift your mood, bring back a forgotten memory, or give you chills from head to toe? Music does far more than entertain us. Scientists have discovered that listening to music activates some of the most powerful systems in the human brain, influencing emotions, memory, movement, learning, and even physical health.

    Understanding how our brains process these sounds reveals why live performances feel so transformative, and why supporting community music organizations matters so deeply.

    Read More
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    Summer 2026 Pops: Free Outdoor Concerts in Des Moines 06/19/2026 In Symphony News

    Experience a thrilling lineup of free, outdoor performances with the Des Moines Symphony!

    Read More
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    The Power of Live Music in a Digital World 05/06/2026 In Symphony News

    In a cultural moment defined by algorithm-curated playlists, on-demand streaming, and noise-canceling headphones, something surprising is happening inside concert halls across the country: The symphony orchestra, one of humanity's oldest and most sophisticated musical institutions, is finding renewed relevance in a world that told it to become irrelevant.

    Read More
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    Announcing our 89th Season: The Power of Sound 04/20/2026 In Symphony News

    Together, we'll discover music that stirs your soul, sparks your imagination and connects all of us to each other in meaningful ways. Learn more about what's coming during our 89th Season! 

    Read More
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    Meet Amaryn Olmeda 04/08/2026 In Symphony News

    Join us for a spectacular Season Finale, as it explodes with Richard Strauss and his monumental storytelling. The Symphony’s powerful brass section is on display, from the composer’s Vienna Philharmonic Fanfare to the cinematic grandeur of his Alpine Symphony featuring 34 brass players. Amaryn Olmeda returns to Des Moines for Mendelssohn’s beautifully melodic Violin Concerto. Read more about her before attending the performances on May 9 and 10, 2026 at the Des Moines Civic Center!

    Read More
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    How Professional Orchestral Music Inspires Connection, Belonging and Joy 04/06/2026 In Symphony News

    Professional orchestral music creates a powerful shared experience that fosters connection, belonging, and joy. Live performances engage both the senses and emotions in ways recordings cannot—through the energy of musicians, the presence of a conductor, and the physical vibrations of sound. These moments unite audiences, allowing even first-time listeners to feel part of something meaningful.

    Read More
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    Donor Spotlight: Denman & Company 04/05/2026 In Symphony News

    Denman & Company is generously supporting the Des Moines Symphony's Masterworks 6: Hope – Copland & Gershwin in April, 2026. Learn more about this company doing good in our community!

    Read More
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    Donor Spotlight: Meier Bernstein Foundation 04/02/2026 In Symphony News

    For decades, the Meier Bernstein Foundation has played a leading role in the arts and culture scene throughout Des Moines. Read on to learn how their support continues to inspire the community today.

    Read More
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    Courage – Alpine Symphony Program Notes 03/30/2026 In Symphony News

    Read about the music and composers featured in our season finale, Courage – Alpine Symphony on May 9 & 10, 2026. 

    Read More
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    Hope – Copland & Gershwin Program Notes 03/04/2026 In Symphony News

    Read about the music and composers featured in Hope – Copland & Gershwin  on April 18 & 19, 2026. 

    Read More

Recent Articles

  • What Happens in Your Brain When You Listen to Music? 07/13/2026 In Symphony News
  • Summer 2026 Pops: Free Outdoor Concerts in Des Moines 06/19/2026 In Symphony News
  • The Power of Live Music in a Digital World 05/06/2026 In Symphony News
  • Announcing our 89th Season: The Power of Sound 04/20/2026 In Symphony News
  • Meet Amaryn Olmeda 04/08/2026 In Symphony News
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