The Olympia Symphony Orchestra is a beloved institution in Olympia, Washington, and has been providing the community with world-class musical performances for over seven decades. Founded in 1947, the orchestra has a rich history of bringing classical and contemporary music to audiences in the South Puget Sound region.
In this article, we will explore the history of the Olympia Symphony Orchestra and take a closer look at its diverse repertoire.
The Early Days of the Olympia Symphony Orchestra
The Olympia Symphony Orchestra was founded by a group of local musicians who wanted to provide a space for classical music in the community. The first concert was held in the old Olympia Armory, and the orchestra was conducted by founding member and violinist, Vernon H. Robinson.
In the early days, the orchestra consisted of amateur musicians who were passionate about classical music. However, as the orchestra grew in popularity, it attracted professional musicians who were drawn to the opportunity to perform in a high-quality ensemble.
Over the years, the Olympia Symphony Orchestra has performed in a variety of venues, from school auditoriums to the Washington Center for the Performing Arts. Today, the orchestra performs primarily at the Washington Center and attracts audiences from all over the South Puget Sound region.
A Diverse Repertoire
One of the things that sets the Olympia Symphony Orchestra apart from other community orchestras is its diverse repertoire. The orchestra performs everything from traditional classical music to contemporary pieces and popular tunes.
Classical Music
Classical music is at the heart of the Olympia Symphony Orchestra’s repertoire. The orchestra performs pieces by some of the world’s most famous composers, including Mozart, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky. In addition to performing the classics, the orchestra also features lesser-known composers and works, offering audiences a chance to hear something new and exciting.
Contemporary Music
The Olympia Symphony Orchestra is also dedicated to performing contemporary pieces. The orchestra frequently performs works by living composers and has premiered several new pieces over the years. The orchestra’s commitment to contemporary music ensures that its repertoire is always fresh and exciting.
Popular Tunes
In addition to classical and contemporary music, the Olympia Symphony Orchestra also performs popular tunes. The orchestra has performed everything from movie soundtracks to Broadway hits, and even collaborates with local musicians and bands to create unique performances.
Community Involvement
The Olympia Symphony Orchestra is committed to giving back to the community through music. In addition to its regular concerts, the orchestra offers educational programs for students and outreach performances for seniors and other community groups.
The orchestra’s education programs include a youth orchestra, which gives young musicians the opportunity to perform in an ensemble and receive instruction from professional musicians. The orchestra also offers in-school programs, bringing live music into the classroom and giving students a chance to experience classical music firsthand.
Outreach performances are another way the orchestra gives back to the community. The orchestra performs at retirement homes, hospitals, and other community organizations, bringing the joy of music to those who might not have the opportunity to attend a regular concert.
The Olympia Symphony Orchestra has been an integral part of the South Puget Sound community for over 70 years. Its commitment to classical and contemporary music, as well as popular tunes, has made it a beloved institution. Additionally, its dedication to education and outreach ensures that future generations will continue to appreciate the beauty and power of live music.
Whether you’re a seasoned concert-goer or a first-time attendee, the Olympia Symphony Orchestra offers something for everyone. Its diverse repertoire and commitment to the community make it a true treasure of the South Puget Sound region.
