Black Hills Symphony Orchestra facts for kids
The Black Hills Symphony Orchestra (often called BHSO) is a group of talented musicians. They are based in Rapid City, South Dakota. Their music reaches people all over the Black Hills area. The BHSO is part of a bigger group called the League of American Orchestras. About ninety musicians play in the orchestra. They usually perform five concerts each year. Their main stage is the Performing Arts Center.
The BHSO also works with other local arts groups. These include the Dakota Choral Union, Black Hills Dance Theater, Black Hills Community Theater, and Bells Of The Hills. Bruce Knowles is the current conductor. Carol Knowles is the lead violinist, called the concertmaster.
A Look Back in Time
The orchestra started a long time ago, in the 1930s. It was first known as the Rapid City Symphony Orchestra. It began with just a small group of people who played string instruments.
Many conductors have led the orchestra over the years. Alex Schneider was a conductor from 1937 to 1942. Vernon Malone led the group in the 1940s. Arnold Rudd, a violinist and businessman, took over in 1952. He was the conductor until 1972.
Jack Knowles became the conductor in 1972. In 2009, his son, Bruce Knowles, took over. Bruce had been helping to conduct since 2000. He is now the music director.
In 1977, a group called the Rapid City Symphony Orchestra Society was formed. This group helps manage the orchestra. In 1988, the orchestra changed its name. It became the "Black Hills Symphony Orchestra." This new name showed that musicians and audience members come from all over the Black Hills area. It is one of two major orchestras in South Dakota.
Learning with Music
The Black Hills Symphony Orchestra helps young people learn about music. They offer special programs for kids in the Black Hills area.
- Symphony Safari: This program helps kids explore the world of orchestral music.
- Music In the Schools: Musicians visit schools to share their love of music.
- Young Artist Competition: This competition helps young musicians show off their talents. It is held with the Black Hills Symphony League.
Many orchestra members also teach music. They work in local public and private schools. They also give private lessons to students.
