Brevard Symphony Orchestra facts for kids

The Brevard Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is a group of talented musicians. They perform amazing classical music concerts. You can find them in Melbourne, Florida, at the King Center. This concert hall can hold 1,880 people! The BSO usually has about 65 paid musicians. Their main office is in a historic building called the Winchester Symphony House in Melbourne.

History of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra

How the Orchestra Started

The Brevard Symphony Orchestra began in a fun way! In January 1954, a group of thirteen musicians got together. They were needed to play music for a show called The Mikado. This show was put on by the Northrop Glee Club. These musicians called themselves the Brevard Light Concert Orchestra. They were led by Frederick Jaehne. After the show, they decided they liked playing together so much that they would stay a group!

Growing and Becoming Official

For the next few years, the orchestra held concerts regularly. In 1966, the Brevard Symphony Orchestra (BSO) became an official non-profit organization. This meant they could operate like a business, but for a good cause. Joseph Kreines became their new conductor. He helped them create their very first season of concerts.

New Leaders and a New Home

In 1969, a group of community members formed a Board of Directors. This board helps guide the orchestra. Maria Tunicka was the Music Director and Conductor from 1976 to 1986. Then, in 1986, Kypros Markou took over this important role.

During the 1987-88 concert season, Maestro Markou led the BSO in their first performances at the new Brevard Performing Arts Center. This building is now known as the King Center for the Performing Arts. The BSO was even named the "orchestra-in-residence" there. This means it's their main home!

In 1994, Kypros Markou decided to leave. In 1995, the Board of Directors chose Christopher Confessore as the new Music Director and Principal Conductor. Mr. Confessore still leads the BSO today. He also works as the Associate Conductor for the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.

The Winchester Symphony House

The main offices for the Brevard Symphony Orchestra are in a building called the Winchester Symphony House. It's located at 1500 Highland Avenue in Melbourne. This old building was built way back in 1886! It has been fixed up many times over the years. Today, it is listed as a Historical Site for Brevard County and the State of Florida.

Educational Programs for Students

The Brevard Symphony Orchestra loves to help students learn about music! They work with the Brevard County School Board. With help from local groups and businesses, they offer a free concert every February. This special concert is for all 5th-grade public school students. It takes place at the King Center.

Learning About Music

The BSO creates a special guide for music teachers. This guide helps teachers prepare students for the concert. It covers everything from the lives of composers to where musicians sit in an orchestra. It even teaches about concert manners! All this information is shared with musical examples in class lessons.

For many students, this concert is their first time visiting the King Center. It's also often their first time hearing a live symphony orchestra! All the materials in the study guide follow the Sunshine State Standards. These are important learning goals for Florida students. They also connect to the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test curriculum. Students who are homeschooled or attend private schools can also come to this concert.