Oakville Symphony Orchestra facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Oakville Symphony |
|
|---|---|
| Orchestra | |
| Founded | 1967 |
| Principal conductor | Roberto De Clara |
The Oakville Symphony is a Canadian orchestra that performs in Oakville, Ontario. This group brings classical music to life for audiences of all ages. They play many concerts each year, sharing the joy of music with their community.
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Discover the Oakville Symphony
The Oakville Symphony is a group of talented musicians. They play beautiful classical music for people in Oakville. Their main goal is to share the fun of music with everyone. Today, they perform at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts.
How the Symphony Started
The Oakville Symphony was started in 1967. A local musician and teacher named Kenneth Hollier founded it. His idea was simple: make music for the players and the audience to enjoy.
In 1968, a small group met for their first practice. This happened in a music room at T. A. Blakelock High School. Some of those original members still play with the orchestra today! Their very first public concert was on June 24, 1968, at the YMCA.
Working with Other Groups
The Oakville Symphony loves to team up with other local groups. They have a long history of performing together. These collaborations make their concerts even more special.
Some groups they have worked with include:
- The White Oaks Choral Society
- The Clarkson Opera Society
- The Oakville School of Ballet
- The Oakville Children's Choir
- The Oakville Suzuki Association
Meet the Conductor and Programs
Since 1998, Roberto De Clara has been the leader of the Oakville Symphony. He is the orchestra's principal conductor. He helps guide the musicians during performances.
Roberto De Clara has started many exciting programs. These programs help more people enjoy classical music.
- Young Artist Awards: This program helps young, talented musicians.
- Family Christmas Concert: A special concert for families during the holidays.
- Young People's Concert: Concerts designed especially for younger audiences.
- Meet a Musician: A community program where people can learn about the musicians.
- Not Just the Score talks: The maestro gives talks to help people understand the music better.
These programs help make sure that people of all ages can connect with the orchestra.
Enjoying the Concerts
The Oakville Symphony has many loyal fans. These fans buy season tickets for the main concert series. The orchestra performs four times a season. Each concert is played twice, and tickets often sell out!
Famous guest soloists from around the world come to play with the orchestra. These soloists are top musicians. They love how welcoming the Oakville Symphony musicians and fans are.
One reviewer talked about a pianist named Christopher Goodpasture. He played a piano concerto with the orchestra. The reviewer said the orchestra played its very best. They felt the soloist, orchestra, and conductor worked together perfectly. It was like a small group of friends playing music.
Who Plays in the Orchestra
More than 80 musicians regularly play with the Oakville Symphony. Most of them are volunteers who love music. Eleven of these musicians are paid professionals. They lead different sections of the orchestra. They also help mentor high school students in the Young Artist program. This helps young musicians learn and grow.
