Reno Philharmonic Orchestra facts for kids

The Reno Philharmonic Orchestra, often called the Reno Phil, is a professional group of musicians. They play classical music and other styles in Reno, Nevada. Their main concert season runs from late September to April each year. The orchestra's current music director is Laura Jackson.

About the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra

The Reno Phil started in 1969. Today, more than 60 professional musicians play in the orchestra. They perform in different places around Reno, Carson Valley, and the Lake Tahoe area. Their main concert series, called the Classix Series, runs from September to April.

Besides the Classix Series, the orchestra also puts on many special shows. These include the holiday favorite "Spirit of the Season." They also perform at "4 July in Genoa" and the "Lake Tahoe Music Festival." A very popular show is "Pops on the River," which often sells out.

Laura Jackson became the music director after a long search in 2008-2009. She was chosen because of her great talent and experience. Before coming to Reno, she was a conductor for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

In 2019, the Reno Phil performed a brand new piece of music. It was called "Transcend" by Zhou Tien. This special piece celebrated 150 years since the First Transcontinental Railroad was finished. The Reno Phil was the first orchestra in the world to play it.

Music Education for Kids

The Reno Philharmonic is very proud of its education programs. These programs help thousands of school children learn about music. They reach kids in Washoe County and nearby areas. The Reno Phil helps schools by providing music education that they might not have enough money for.

Young People's Concerts

The Reno Phil puts on 12 "Young People's Concerts" every year. These concerts are for all third, fourth, and fifth-grade students. They come from schools in Washoe County and other nearby areas. It's a fun way for kids to experience live orchestral music.

Discover Music Program

The "Discover Music" program brings small groups of musicians right into schools. These groups have two to five musicians. They visit elementary schools in Washoe County and the region. They perform interactive shows that are perfect for kids. Children get to see instruments up close and learn about music. They can even join in some activities.

Youth Orchestras

The Reno Philharmonic also has three youth orchestras. These groups are for young musicians aged 12 to 18. They include players of woodwind, brass, percussion, and string instruments.

• The Youth Concert Orchestra (YCO) helps young musicians improve their skills. It prepares them for more advanced playing.
• The Youth Strings Symphonia (YSS) is for younger string players. It helps students in grades 4-8 develop their string playing.

These youth orchestras give young people a chance to play in a full orchestra. They learn from experienced conductors and musicians.

Awards and Recognition

The Reno Philharmonic has won many awards for its music and its education programs.

In 2009, they received a Governor's Arts Award. This award recognized their long history and artistic quality. Reno Magazine named them "Best of Reno Award" in 2006. Readers of the Reno Gazette-Journal also voted them "Best Performing Arts Group" nine times. The Reno Phil has also won several Silver Star awards for improving life in northern Nevada.

Past Music Directors

• Gregory Stone, 1969–1979
• Ron Daniels, 1979–1998