It’s not just meetings, cocktail hours and family get-togethers that have gone virtual, many nonprofits in our community are turning online to continue fundraising. But how do you do a 5K race virtually? Central Oregon Symphony has it figured out with their 6th Annual Beat Beethoven’s 5th 5K race.
Rather than canceling this fun event, which raises important funds for the Symphony, they decided to take it virtual. Unlike some other race-style events, this one has a specific goal: beat the time it takes to play Beethoven’s 5th symphony (approximately 33 minutes) for your 5k run time. To put this in perspective, that’s just about a 10 minute mile.
So how exactly does a virtual race work? Register online by October 6, and you’ll receive a printable bib with sponsor logos. Send photos of yourself, with your bib, participating in the race (e.g. walking or running) and they will be posted on the Central Oregon Symphony website. There are some great prizes too, including gift certificates to some of your favorite Bend shops.
The Symphony enriches our community in a multitude of ways, not the least of which are three much-anticipated seasonal concerts throughout the year. Tickets are complimentary, and the shows are well worth attending. The Symphony also puts on free “Music in Public Places” throughout the year with small groups of musicians.
Ensuring the next generation of musicians is well prepared for their future, Central Oregon Symphony has a number of programs for young people. Their Young Artists Competition gives young symphonic artists the opportunity to perform solo with the Symphony, and their Annual Children’s Concert is an event made for kids of all ages to perform and peak their interest in classical music.
When school is in session, musicians from the symphony visit local public elementary schools to introduce students to the instruments of the orchestra and give insight into the life of a musician. The musicians also touch upon concert etiquette and answer questions during these school visits.
Music is such an important part of building community, bringing vibrancy and a sense of belonging. One might argue that we need the power of music now more than ever! We’re proud to be a donor to the Symphony in support of this year’s Beat Beethoven’s 5th. We hope you’ll join us to help to support the richness of culture and shared experience that the Central Oregon Symphony provides to our region.
