Release Date: September 15,2026
Akron Symphony Orchestra to Join Forces With Award-Winning Children’s Musician Mr. Jeff for Family Concert
September 14, 2026, Akron, OH — The Akron Symphony Orchestra is teaming up with award-winning children’s music artist Mr. Jeff for a fresh, interactive take on a beloved childhood classic. On May 2nd, 2027, families can experience Peter & Mr. Jeff and the Wolf at E.J. Thomas Hall, where familiar orchestral music meets Mr. Jeff’s original songs in a lively symphonic adventure.
Created with the orchestra’s youngest fans in mind, the family concert is designed to entertain audiences of all ages. The performance combines music, movement, storytelling, sing-alongs, and plenty of surprises, all backed by the energy of a live orchestra.
“Jeff Klemm is a young performer who has already become a local legend in the field of educational entertainment for young people, and his reputation is growing nationally,” said Akron Symphony Orchestra Associate Conductor Eric Benjamin. “Combining his dynamic original music with an updated classic of symphonic music for young people is a formula for a fun afternoon with an orchestra. Music, movement, a story, an orchestra, songs to sing, a wolf on the loose... this show has everything!”
Benjamin is also serving as the production’s arranger, giving him the chance to explore new ways for the orchestra to complement and expand Mr. Jeff’s music. “As an arranger, I listen to Jeff's music and am thrilled to ask, and have fun answering, ‘What can the orchestra bring to this party?’” Benjamin said. “This is going to be the most fun you can have with an orchestra in the room.”
For Mr. Jeff, the collaboration is a longtime dream come true.
“Collaborating with Associate Conductor Eric Benjamin has been a joy, and I can't wait for families to experience this fun reimagining of an orchestral classic!” said Mr. Jeff. “As a lifelong fan of the Akron Symphony Orchestra, working alongside ASO has been a dream come true, and I just know families will LOVE the twists and turns of our musical adventure!”
The production will put audiences at the center of the action, with plenty of opportunities to participate, sing along, and experience the orchestra in a new way. “Orchestra + Children's Musician + E.J. Thomas Hall = an unforgettable family-friendly experience,” Mr. Jeff said. “We have a lot of interactive and engaging fun surprises in store for families!”
Peter & Mr. Jeff and the Wolf marks the return of the Akron Symphony Orchestra’s family concerts, giving young listeners an entertaining introduction to the sounds, stories, and possibilities of a symphony orchestra.
This event will take place on May 2nd, 2027, beginning at 3:30 P.M. at E.J. Thomas Hall. Tickets start at $10 for children ten and under, with all seating for this special event being general admission. Tickets are on sale through the Akron Symphony Orchestra box office or by visiting akronsymphony.org beginning September 14th.
About Akron Symphony Orchestra
The Akron Symphony Orchestra has been an integral part of Northeast Ohio’s cultural landscape for over 70 years. Committed to fostering artistic excellence and community engagement, the ASO presents diverse and beloved programming that inspires, entertains, and connects. With a passion for education and collaboration, the ASO continues to be a driving force in bringing world-class performances and regional pride to Akron. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.akronsymphony.org or contact buckey@akronsymphony.org.
About Mr. Jeff
"Award Winning, Silly, Fun and Original Children's Music for Kids Created by a Teacher" Meet Mr. Jeff, the super fun musician and teacher! Mr. Jeff wears many hats as a multi-instrumentalist musician, songwriter, music teacher, audio engineer, and former Pre-K and Preschool Teacher. With a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential™ to his name, he spent four years inspiring young minds in his preschool classroom, where he seamlessly blended music, theatrics, and reading into his lessons. Mr. Jeff’s YouTube channel, with over 100,000 views, is a favorite for kids and families, offering fun, educational music videos that spark joy and curiosity. His high-energy, interactive live shows combine gross motor movement, social-emotional learning, and a healthy dose of silliness, leaving kids ready for a nap—and parents asking for more! Perfect for libraries, schools, festivals, museums, and family-friendly events, Mr. Jeff’s performances are designed to captivate and engage audiences of all ages.