The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) and Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts have joined forces to adapt the innovative STROKESTRA® model for a Florida audience. This exciting partnership aims to cultivate a new programme for the Dr. Phillips Center aligning with their vision of Arts For Every Life®.
In 2022, the RPO’s residency at Dr. Phillips Center provided an opportunity to initiate the collaboration. The RPO’s Community and Education team planned a series of activities including workshops with local schools and the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra. A pilot STROKESTRA® session also took place to gauge potential, which generated a lot of interest from the local stroke community.
Building on this initial success, the RPO and Dr. Phillips Center have been actively developing the STROKESTRA® program in Florida through:
- Mentoring Local Musicians: Providing guidance and support to local professional musicians.
- Expert Facilitation: Engaging skilled facilitator Nolan Williams Jr. through mentorship with the RPO team and Dr. Tim Steiner, STROKESTRA® UK’s lead facilitator.
- Programme Development: Collaborating closely with Dr. Phillips Center to refine and shape the programme’s development and goals.
The first full cohort of STROKESTRA® participants are currently taking part in a three-month project, culminating in a performance at Judson's, Dr. Phillips Center's state-of-the-art venue, where the RPO will be present to offer support, feedback and continued guidance.
We’ve greatly enjoyed working with the Dr. Phillips Center on developing this activity, and we eagerly anticipate the continued growth of this partnership and the transformative impact of STROKESTRA® in the Florida community.
Hannah Foakes, Community and Education Lead Producer
Photos © Royal Philharmonic Orchestra