The Holland Symphony Orchestra (HSO) is thrilled to announce “HSO Presents Music Moves Us,” a weeklong celebration of free events combining music and movement from Aug. 6-10. This unique summer series features dance demonstrations and classes in a variety of music styles, including swing, Dutch Dance, Zumba, and more, with activities designed for all ages.

 

These free family-friendly events are designed to engage the community, with several activities focused on children, such as Polynesian dance lessons and a kids’ Groove dance party. A sensory-friendly art and music experience will also be available for children with sensory needs. For the first time in Holland State Park history, salsa lessons will be held on the beach. Additionally, yoga enthusiasts can enjoy a serene yoga session paired with a blissful sound bath at Tunnel Park. 

 

“This multi-day event is made possible with the support of the city of Holland and embraces the transformative power of music and movement to unite, enrich, and celebrate the diversity of our community in shared spaces of accessibility and enlightenment,” said Michael Naess, HSO’s new CEO/president. “More than half of the events will be held at Kollen or Centennial city parks, and we are partnering with existing events such as the Downtown Street Performers and the Summer Concert Series. Additionally, we are collaborating with over 20 organizations, from I AM Academy to Evergreen Commons to Disability Network Lakeshore, to create a festival of accessible and inclusive activities drawing on the many talents of our community members that combine music and movement for the enjoyment of everyone.” 

 

“Music Moves Us” originated from feedback following HSO's mariachi concert in 2021, which led to the "Music Unites Us" concert last year. Inspired by community requests for more, HSO has developed 10 events over five days, encompassing a variety of music and dance experiences. The week will culminate with the symphony’s “Music Unites Us—Brazil!” concert with the Brazilian folk trio Choro das 3 at Kollen Park on Aug. 10. 

 

Event Schedule:

Tuesday, Aug. 6

  • 10-11 a.m. – Sound Bath + Yoga at Tunnel Park: Experience a blissful sound bath by Rebecca Wierks and a serene yoga session led by Jasmine Jelsema, and supported by Women of Color Give. Bring a mat or towel.

  • 12-12:45 p.m. – Kids’ Groove dance party at Centennial Park: Dr. Donna Lowry will get children grooving with dance and storytime from Herrick District Library.

  • 1-2 p.m. – Adults’ Groove dance party at Centennial Park: Join Heather Winia, a master trainer from The World Groove Movement, for a fun dance session under the trees.

Wednesday, August 7

  • 9:30-10 a.m. – Kids’ Polynesian story and dance at Holland Farmers Market: Minnie Morey and the Pacific Island Dancers will engage kids with music, dance, and stories. Sponsored by West Michigan Asian American Association and Community Action House.

  • 7-8 p.m. – Salsa dancing and lesson at Holland State Park: Join Juan and Julie Mascorro from LAUP Salserines for a fun-filled salsa dance lesson on the beach.

Thursday, August 8

  • 10-10:45 a.m. – Dutch Dance lesson at Centennial Park: Celebrate 90 years of Tulip Time’s Dutch Dance with a lesson from Jenn Ryckbost.

  • 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Hip-hop lesson and dancing at GDK Park/Downtown Holland Street Performers: Learn hip-hop moves with Lauren Beck and the I AM Academy dance team.

Friday, August 9

  • 10:15-11 a.m. – Zumba Gold class at Evergreen Commons: Join Amy Vande Poel for a morning of Zumba Gold. Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers.

  • 5:30-6 p.m. – Dance lesson before big band concert at Kollen Park: Warm up with a big band dance lesson from Walker Wilson of Wilson Dance Studio before the Big Band Lakeshore concert.

Saturday, August 10

  • 10-11 a.m. – Kids’ Sensory Art and Music Experience at Holland Museum: A sensory-friendly event with art, music, and fun for children with sensory needs, led by Liz Donoghue. Sponsored by Disability Network Lakeshore, CultureWorks, and Holland Museum. Limited spots are available; register early by emailing Ketzi at zylstraketzi@gmail.com (subject: Music Moves Us).

Grand finale at Kollen Park: “Music Unites Us – Brazil!”

  • 4-5 p.m. – Capoeira dance demonstration and lesson: Learn about Brazilian capoeira with Leandro Lemos, sponsored by Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates.

  • 5-6 p.m. – Holland Samba School performance: Enjoy a lively samba performance led by percussionist Christopher Fashun, the group’s founder and musical director, along with its members.

  • 7 p.m. – Holland Symphony Orchestra with Choro das 3: Enjoy a performance by this Brazilian folk music trio, accompanied by the Holland Symphony Orchestra and guest conductor Christopher Fashun.

 

The concert is made possible by the sponsorship of Corewell Health, Macatawa Area Coordinating Council, Macatawa Bank, and Gentex, with support from the MillerKnoll Foundation and the Brooks Family Foundation.

 

Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and join us for a week to remember!