The Ashland Public Library and the Ashland Symphony Orchestra, presented "Meet the Woodwinds" in the library's large meeting room Monday afternoon.
   

The first in a series of programs, this lively event included activities and an instrument petting zoo and a visit from an Ashland Symphony Orchestra member.

"Meet the Woodwinds," featured an appearance by Dr. Thomas Reed, principal clarinetist of the Ashland Symphony Orchestra.
 

Mike's Music Corner in Ashland provided instruments for the "petting zoo" which provided opportunities for hands-on exploration of the instruments being highlighted.

Ashland Symphony Orchestra general manager Jarrod Hartzler said the orchestra recently received a grant from the Ohio Arts Council to collaborate with the Ashland Public Library and the goal of the partnership is to combine the reach and assets of these two community organizations to promote music education for all ages.

"Through the grant we're doing educational programs, buying resources for the library and offering some discounts to families to come to all the concerts," Hartzler said.

Meet the Woodwinds will be followed by Meet the Brass on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013 Meet the Strings on Monday, March 18, 2013 and Meet the Percussion on Monday, April 29, 2013.
 

The Ohio Arts Council grant will also fund additional music CDs, books and other items to enhance the Ashland Public Library's collection of materials about symphonic music and composers.