Five orchestra musicians have been recognized with Ford Musician Awards for Excellence in Community Service for their important work in hospitals, correctional facilities, schools, museums, and more. The League of American Orchestras program, made possible by Ford Motor Company Fund, celebrates orchestra musicians and the inspirational work they do in their communities. The musicians received their awards at the League’s Conference in Detroit on June 7, and they also discussed their work at a Conference session. The musicians and their orchestras are: Mark Dix, viola, Phoenix Symphony, for education and health and wellness programs; Michael Gordon, principal flute, Kansas City Symphony, for free musical events in the community, including performances for the incarcerated; Diane McElfish Helle, violin, Grand Rapids Symphony, for a program engaging the healthcare community and introducing live music into music therapy sessions; Eunsoon Lee-Corliss, assistant principal violist, Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, for live musical performances benefiting patients, visitors, and staff in healthcare settings; and Peter Zlotnick, educational manager/principal timpani, Greensboro Symphony Orchestra, for music education and social programs for elementary-school and Head Start students. Find out more at https://americanorchestras.org/ford-musician-awards-for-excellence-in-community-service-2017-awardees/.
