Portrait of the Symphony
- The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra is a
professioanl symphony
orchestra that provides a classical concert series, hiliday concerts and
chamber music performances to the community and surrounding areas.
Orchestra members include music faculty from the Florida State University,
professional musicians form the Tallahassee community, and gifted graduate
students from the University. Foinded in 1979 by Nicholas Harsanyi, the
Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra grew under his exceptional leadership until
his death in 1987. David Hoose became the orchestra's third music dirctor
in 1993.
- Many acclaimed artists have appeared with the Tallahassee Symphony
Orchestra, including Anthony di Bonaventura, pianist; Ellen Zwilich, first
woman recipient of the Pulitzer Prize in composition; and Janos Starker,
world-reknown cellist and teacher. The Symphony has also always strived
to present the best of young, promising artists to its audiences.
- As a leader in the cultural life of the area, the Tallahassee
Symphony Orchestra appeared in 1985 at the Capitol in observation of the
opening of the Florida Legislature, and in 1986 to benefit the the
Monticello Opera House in Jefferson County. A cooperative education
program between the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra and the City of
Tallahassee that was begun in 1986 has provided concert opportunites for
more than 1,000 senior citizens and others from the community who need
assistance in attending cultural events.
- A youth orchestra program in a community the size and quality of
Tallahassee is a high priority. The Symphony fulfills this need by
sponsoring the Tallahassee Symphony Youth Orchestra, a vital program which
has grown to include four levels of young musicians: Primos, Symphonic
Strings, Philharmonia, and the Tallahassee Symphony Youth Orchestra
(Senior Orchestra). More than 140 young people gather weekly with
dedicated teachers, coaches and conductors toreceive quality instruction
and experience the joy of rehearsing and performing orchestral music with
their peers.
- In 1992, the Tallahassee Symphony Society was formed; dedicated to
supporting the programs of the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra through a
vairty of volunteer activities. The Tallahassee Symphony Society is open
to any community member who wishes to participate.
- The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra is a member of the American
Symphony Orchestra League, and is funded by the generous support of
friends, business sponsors and private foundations. The Symphony receives
public support from the Florida Department of State, the Florida Arts
Council, and the City of Tallahassee. The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra
is governed by a volunteer board with Marjorie R. Turnbull serving as
President.
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Copyright © 1995 Tallahassee
Symphony Orchestra. All Rights Reserved.