On Sunday, October 26th, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic hosted its inaugural SEATMATES concert as part of the Garbee Family Signature Series, welcoming a unique blend of generations into the concert hall.
The event, held at 2:30 p.m., brought together students from Joye Levy’s Community-Based Arts and Education class at UCCS and longtime Philharmonic patrons for an afternoon of music, memories, and meaningful connection.
Before the concert began, participants gathered for a cozy pre-show meet-up featuring fall-themed snacks and a chance to chat. The heart of the gathering, however, was the exchange of musical memories. Students and older patrons shared stories that spanned decades—recalling the first lullabies sung by mothers, tunes heard on the radio, first concerts attended, and the moment they picked up an instrument for the first time.
A collaborative timeline emerged from these conversations, stretching from the 1930s to the early 2000s, illustrating how music has been a constant thread through generations. The experience highlighted music’s remarkable ability to transcend age and background, sparking new friendships and deepening appreciation for the arts.
The connections made were more than fleeting. Several students and patrons exchanged contact information, with promises to attend each other’s future performances and recitals. In a time when many young people and grandparents live in different parts of the country, these intergenerational friendships are more important than ever.
Joye Levy, who also serves as the Philharmonic’s Director for the Center for Future Audiences, emphasized the value of these relationships: “Sometimes we all need a good seatmate.”
If you’re interested in participating in the next SEATMATES event, scheduled for Van Cliburn Champions: Mozart on Sunday, February 1st, reach out to Joye Levy to learn more. Whether you’re a student, a seasoned concertgoer, or simply someone who loves music, this program offers a chance to connect, reflect, and share the joy of live performance—together.
