The South Carolina Philharmonic is partnering with a nonprofit to bring classical music to the Columbia prison from Arts & Entertainment Columbia. Taking a unique approach to prison education, the collaboration aims to bring a sense of humanity and emotional connection to the inmates through interactive recitals. This initiative by former first chair violinist Holly Mulcahy’s nonprofit, Arts Capacity, focuses on creating a safe space for inmates to express their emotions, share experiences, and build empathy.
Through this partnership, the South Carolina Philharmonic plans to offer free concert subscriptions to participants upon their release, aiming to support their reentry into society. The program will be tailored to the preferences of the incarcerated audience, prioritizing living composers and encouraging open discussions about the music’s meaning. By engaging with the prisoners on a personal level, Arts Capacity and the Philharmonic hope to positively impact prosocial behavior, emotional intelligence, family connections, and ultimately reduce recidivism rates.
With twenty philharmonic musicians already eager to participate, the inaugural South Carolina show is expected to take place soon. The collaboration not only aligns with the Philharmonic’s mission of community engagement but also serves as a meaningful opportunity to eliminate barriers to accessing classical music for underserved populations. Through this innovative approach, the partnership strives to transform the prison experience by bringing the transformative power of music behind bars.
