Colorado Symphony Orchestra links up with pot industry for fundraising concerts

DENVER – Saying it’s bring your own weed, the Colorado Symphony Orchestra will play a series of fundraising concerts sponsored by the state’s burgeoning pot industry.

In a statement Tuesday, symphony CEO Jerome Kern says they’re part of efforts to reach a broader audience. The state’s only full-time professional orchestra, like others, has struggled with dwindling audiences and budget problems.

Listeners are encouraged to bring their own marijuana to smoke or eat. Smoking will be allowed at the private venues where the first two 21-and-up concerts will be held. Organizers say they will follow the rules at the final show at the publicly-owned Red Rocks Amphitheater, where smoking is officially banned.

Symphony volunteer guild member Judith Inman says she knows the symphony is facing challenges but is skeptical of the marijuana mash-up.