Virginia Symphony Orchestra
Driven by our core values of artistic excellence and inclusion, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to creating world-class symphonic performances, transformative music education, and purposeful community engagement throughout Southeastern Virginia. One of Virginia’s most celebrated musical, educational and entrepreneurial arts organizations, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra celebrated its 100th Anniversary in the 2020-2021 season. Innovation has been at the heart of the VSO’s narrative since its inception, and the VSO continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. In 1991 the VSO made a very bold move and appointed the gifted young American conductor JoAnn Falletta as its music director. Since then, the orchestra has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.8 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in national media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio and BBC Worldwide News. As the largest arts performing organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events to educate, enlighten and entertain more than 100,000 residents and visitors each year, successfully expanding its programming beyond the traditional concert format. These include the innovative and thematic concerts like special “Sensory-friendly concerts” designed to accommodate the needs of audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities. Its health and wellness programs incorporate interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
