Vermont Symphony Orchestra Marks 90th Anniversary with Extensive Statewide Tour and Historic Season

BURLINGTON, VT – The Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO), a cornerstone of the state’s cultural landscape, is set to embark on a landmark 2024-2025 season, celebrating its 90th anniversary with an ambitious schedule of performances reaching communities across Vermont.

Over its nine decades, the VSO has grown from a regional ensemble into a professional orchestra recognized for its commitment to bringing orchestral music to residents throughout the state. This anniversary season underscores that dedication, with performances planned in an impressive 43 different Vermont towns.

A Robust Organizational Structure

The VSO operates with a significant network of professionals and volunteers dedicated to its mission. The orchestra itself comprises 54 contracted union musicians, a number that expands to over 70 for larger symphonic concerts. Supporting these artists is a core administrative team of four full-time and four part-time staff members. The organization also benefits from the contributions of an 80-voice chorus, two regional Friends committees, and an 18-member Board of Directors. Cumulatively, this structure involves over 115 volunteers actively engaged in fostering music throughout Vermont.

Diverse Programming Highlights the Season

The 90th-anniversary season features a diverse array of programming designed to appeal to a broad audience, ranging from classical performances to collaborations with contemporary artists and specialized chamber concerts.

A highly anticipated highlight includes two performances featuring acclaimed Vermont-raised artist Grace Potter and her band. These joint concerts are scheduled for March 20 at the Paramount Theatre in Rutland and March 21 at The Flynn in Burlington, promising a fusion of rock and orchestral sound.

The VSO will also present more intimate chamber music settings. From March 28 to March 30, a string quartet will perform in celebration of Women’s History Month. These concerts, taking place in Burlington, Montpelier, Weston, and Weybridge, will showcase works by significant female composers, including Jocelyn Morlock’s poignant ‘My Name is Amanda Todd’ and Alexandra du Bois’ evocative ‘Fanfare’.

Adding a unique dimension to the season, the Jukebox quartet will undertake a tour from April 4 to April 12. This series includes performances in Bennington, Brattleboro, Burlington, Rutland, and White River Junction. The quartet will present varied programs, featuring the unconventional ‘Heavy Metal Strings’ concept alongside ‘Juicebox’ shows specifically tailored for young audiences, demonstrating the VSO’s commitment to innovation and educational outreach.

Concluding the Anniversary Year

The extensive 90th-anniversary season is slated to culminate with a special finale performance on May 10, 2025. This concluding event will take place at The Flynn in Burlington, a central venue for the orchestra’s major presentations.

A Rich Legacy of Performance

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra boasts a significant history of bringing world-class music to the state. Over the past 45 years alone, the VSO has held an estimated 1,580 performances, reaching an audience of over 1 million attendees. This impressive track record includes appearances by numerous renowned soloists who have graced the VSO stage, such as cellist Yo-Yo Ma, pianist Andre Watts, and banjo virtuoso Bela Fleck, highlighting the orchestra’s ability to attract top-tier talent.

Accessibility remains a key priority for the VSO. In line with efforts to make performances available to younger generations, student tickets are offered at an affordable price of $10 for many events.

As the Vermont Symphony Orchestra enters its 90th year, the 2024-2025 season stands as both a reflection of its rich past and a testament to its ongoing vitality and commitment to enriching communities across Vermont through the power of live orchestral music.