For about 50 fourth graders from Sanders-Clyde Elementary, a visit to the Gaillard Center brought their classroom piano lessons to life. On September 28, students attended the Charleston Symphony’s rehearsal with world-renowned pianist Lang Lang, getting an up-close look at where their own musical interests could lead.

Live 5 News covered the visit, hosted through the Symphony’s new music education partnership with Charleston County School District. The students study piano through the Lang Lang International Music Foundation’s Keys of Inspiration program, which expands access to music education through classroom keyboard labs.

In interviews with reporter Hannah Borchert, Sanders-Clyde Music Director Kristine Peters described how learning piano helps students build confidence and imagine new possibilities. CSO Artistic Director and Concertmaster Yuriy Bekker emphasized the discipline and perseverance that music develops, lessons students can carry into every part of their education. Several young attendees said the experience strengthened their enthusiasm for continuing to play.