Vermont Symphony Orchestra Marks 90 Years with Unprecedented Statewide Celebration in 2024-2025 Season

BURLINGTON, VT – The Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO), the state’s premier professional orchestra, is set to embark on a landmark celebration during its 2024-2025 season, marking its 90th anniversary. This milestone season promises to be the VSO’s most ambitious yet, featuring performances and educational engagements reaching into 43 different towns across the state of Vermont, reinforcing the orchestra’s deep connection to its community roots.

Founded with the mission to “foster and encourage the love of music throughout Vermont,” the VSO’s 90th anniversary season is designed to be a comprehensive showcase of musical diversity and accessibility. The extensive itinerary includes a variety of performance formats tailored to different settings and audiences. These range from intimate woodwind trios performing within school environments to sophisticated string quartets gracing museums, powerful choral presentations in opera houses, and the grandeur of full symphony orchestra concerts in larger venues.

The Fabric of the Orchestra

The VSO’s ability to deliver such a wide-ranging program is built upon the dedication of its personnel and supporters. The orchestra comprises 54 contracted union musicians, a core group of highly skilled professionals. For larger symphonic concerts, this number expands to include over 70 participating musicians, showcasing the full power and breadth of the orchestral sound. Supporting the artistic endeavors is a dedicated staff of four full-time and four part-time members who manage the complex logistics of statewide tours and educational programs.

Integral to the VSO’s operations is its robust volunteer network. An 80-voice chorus adds a significant dimension to vocal and choral works, while over 115 volunteers contribute countless hours. This volunteer force includes vital VSO Friends committees scattered across the state, as well as the governing 18-member Board of Directors, all united in their commitment to the orchestra’s mission and its presence in Vermont communities.

Anticipating Key Performances

The 2024-2025 season calendar is punctuated with several highly anticipated events that highlight the VSO’s versatility and collaborative spirit. A notable pairing sees the orchestra collaborating with Vermont’s own Grace Potter and her band. These special joint performances are scheduled for March 20, 2025, at the Paramount Theatre in Rutland, followed by a second engagement on March 21, 2025, at The Flynn in Burlington.

March 2025 also features programming specifically curated to celebrate Women’s History Month. From March 28-30, 2025, VSO string quartets will present concerts featuring music composed by female artists. These performances are slated to take place in multiple locations across the state, including Burlington, Montpelier, Weston, and Weybridge, offering audiences a chance to explore diverse and often underrepresented voices in classical music.

The innovative Jukebox quartet will return from April 4-12, presenting their popular “Heavy Metal Strings” program alongside engaging “Juicebox” shows specifically designed for young audiences. These performances will tour various locations, bringing unique musical experiences to different communities.

The celebratory season will culminate in a grand finale concert scheduled for May 10, 2025, at The Flynn in Burlington. This capstone event is expected to bring together elements that have defined the VSO’s journey over nine decades.

A Rich History and Enduring Legacy

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s 90th anniversary is not merely a look forward but also an opportunity to reflect on a rich history that has shaped its identity. Key milestones include the inception of the beloved Summer Festival Tour in 1978, which has become a cherished annual tradition bringing orchestral music to outdoor venues across Vermont. Another significant development was the founding of the VSO Chorus in 1993 by the esteemed conductor Robert De Cormier, further expanding the orchestra’s artistic capabilities and community involvement.

The VSO’s enduring presence and its commitment to reaching audiences in 43 towns underscore its vital role in the state’s cultural landscape. By presenting music in diverse settings and formats, from formal concert halls to schools and museums, the orchestra actively works to fulfill its mission to “foster and encourage the love of music throughout Vermont” for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The 2024-2025 season stands as a testament to nine decades of musical excellence and a promise of continued artistic vitality for the future.