About Join the Symphony Debs and Red Ties!

The Debs and Red Ties program prepares motivated high school students to become future leaders. Established in 1984 as a way to engage local youth in the arts, the program has since transformed into a certificated job skills training opportunity for hundreds of high school students.

Participants receive training to assist at SBSO performances and special events. They learn job skills including teamwork, punctuality, and customer service. They also learn about the historic orchestra and concert venue which builds both pride of place and cultural literacy. Further, they learn about jobs in the arts, including those many support jobs not performed on stage which further expands their career horizons.

All Debs and Red Ties receive concert tickets for their families to attend SBSO performances.