Instrument Petting Zoo

Hands-on Musical Fun: Discover the Instruments

Uncover the magic of music at our interactive instrument petting zoo! From bowing a violin to tooting a flute, striking a drum, plucking a cello, and buzzing a trumpet, the petting zoo is a fun and interactive musical experience. Kids will learn about the different musical instrument families, how to hold the instruments, and even have the chance to play them.

Rent a Zoo

Interested in requesting an instrument petting zoo? The zoo travels throughout the Greater New Haven area, visiting classrooms, libraries, camps, and festivals. The NHSO will provide instruments and trained volunteers or professional musicians to you! 

E-mail Education@NewHavenSymphony.org to book a visit from the zoo!

$195 for a 2.5 hour visit

Become a Zookeeper

The NHSO is looking for dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers to help support petting zoo events. A zookeeper will be responsible for demonstrating the instruments, transporting instruments, and supervising children. No prior music experience is required. All volunteers will be trained in sound production on the different instruments, basic instrument maintenance, health and sanitation procedures and more. This is a great community service opportunity for students, future educators, music lovers, and many others!

Please e-mail Education@NewHavenSymphony.org if you are looking to become a zookeeper.

Donate an Instrument

Do you have a gently used musical instrument collecting dust in the attic? The Instrument Petting Zoo is seeking donations to inspire and educate the next generation of musicians. Your contribution can bring the joy of music to countless children.

We are currently only looking for a trumpet, trombone, violin (sizes 1/16, 1/10, 1/8, 1/4) and cello (sizes 1/16, 1/10, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2).

We will only accept instruments if:
  • The instrument is both functional and playable
  • You are available to drop them off at the NHSO office (4 Hamilton Street, New Haven CT)

Please e-mail Education@NewHavenSymphony.org if you have any of these instruments.

Questions?

Contact Education Director Caitlin Daly-Gonzales at Education@NewHavenSymphony.org.