South Dakota Symphony

The '''South Dakota Symphony Orchestra''' (SDSO) is a distinguished American orchestra based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Celebrated for its commitment to live orchestral music, the SDSO has become a cornerstone in the cultural life of the region, with a mission to enrich lives through its performances and community engagement. ===History=== Founded in 1922 at Augustana University, the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra has evolved into a fully professional ensemble. With a rich history of performing across South Dakota, the SDSO has established itself as the state's preeminent arts organization. The orchestra is comprised of 75 full-time professional musicians and is known for its innovative programming and dedication to community engagement. ===Performances and Venue=== The orchestra's home is the Mary W. Sommervold Concert Hall at the Washington Pavilion, renowned for its exceptional acoustics. The SDSO presents 10 subscription concerts annually, offering a diverse repertoire that includes both classical and pops music. Additionally, the orchestra's performances are accessible to a wider audience through livestreams and partnerships with South Dakota Public Broadcasting, ensuring that over 50,000 people, including 18,000 children, can experience their music each year. ===Ensembles=== The orchestra's core of nine full-time musicians forms two chamber ensembles: the Dakota String Quartet and the Dakota Wind Quintet. These ensembles perform over 100 times each year in various settings such as schools, hospitals, and community centers, demonstrating the SDSO's commitment to outreach and education. ===Community Engagement=== The SDSO is nationally recognized for its innovative community engagement initiatives, particularly the award-winning Lakota Music Project. This flagship program, praised by the League of American Orchestras, promotes cultural understanding and collaboration between the orchestra and the Lakota people. The Bridging Cultures initiative further expands this effort, incorporating music from diverse cultures and backgrounds. ===Education=== Education is a cornerstone of the SDSO's mission, with programs like the Young People’s Concerts, the South Dakota Symphony Youth Orchestra, and the Young Musician Concerto Competition. The orchestra also conducts Music Composition Academies and maintains a strong presence in local schools through regular performances by its chamber ensembles. ===Leadership=== Under the baton of Music Director Delta David Gier, the orchestra has gained a reputation for championing contemporary composers, with Gier receiving the 2022 Ditson Conductor’s Award for his support of American music. The SDSO's innovative approach and community impact have been highlighted in national media, including The New Yorker, which described the orchestra as one of America's boldest. ===Support and Recognition=== The SDSO thrives on the support of its community, with various giving programs and an annual gala. Its efforts have not gone unnoticed, with features in publications like The American Scholar Magazine, and recordings that include the much-anticipated Lakota Music Project album. The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra continues to be a model of an engaged orchestra, demonstrating the power of music to connect, inspire, and transform communities. ==External Links== * [http://www.sdsymphony.org Official website of the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra] * [http://www.sdpb.org South Dakota Public Broadcasting] [[Category:American orchestras]] [[Category:Musical groups established in 1922]] [[Category:Organizations based in South Dakota]] [[Category:Sioux Falls, South Dakota]]