Portland Chamber Orchestra

The Portland Chamber Orchestra (PCO) is a distinguished ensemble with a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1947. Established by Finnish composer and conductor Boris Sirpo, the PCO began as a group of select music students at Lewis and Clark College, where Sirpo was a faculty member. Fleeing the ravages of war in his native Finland, Sirpo brought his passion for music and education to Portland, Oregon, where he laid the foundation for what would become one of America's oldest chamber orchestras. Under Sirpo's guidance, the PCO quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to delivering high-quality performances and for its innovative approach to repertoire. This tradition of excellence and innovation has been upheld throughout the orchestra's history and continues to be a defining characteristic. In 2002, the orchestra welcomed Yaacov Bergman as its Artistic Director. Bergman's tenure has been marked by a distinctive enhancement of the orchestra's timbre and a renewed focus on the fusion of various art forms. This creative direction has led to the PCO presenting World, American, and Northwest Premieres, often integrating music with visual arts, poetry, theater, and even interdisciplinary themes such as science and sexuality. In recognition of its inventive programming, Willamette Week's annual Finder edition in 2011 described the PCO as "The Most Ambitious Arts Organization in Portland," noting that it "punches way above its weight" under Bergman's leadership. The PCO's mission is to provide an extraordinary musical experience through an imaginative fusion of the arts, a goal that is reflected in their diverse and ambitious projects. The orchestra's commitment to the community is also evident in its efforts to recruit board members who share a passion for the arts, education, and community service. The Board of Directors, comprising individuals with various skills, backgrounds, and geographic locations, is dedicated to supporting the growth and development of the organization. The executive committee includes Dr. Stephen Shepherd as President, Robert Kingdom as Vice President, Dr. Miriam English Ward as Interim Treasurer, Mary Bailey as Secretary, and Mike Nichols as Past President. The PCO's dedication to the arts extends to its audience engagement, offering events and special deals like the "Wildfin special deal" and thematic concerts such as "From Darkness To Light." The orchestra encourages music lovers to explore their season, plan visits to their performances, and support the organization through various means. With its rich history, commitment to fusion of the arts, and innovative spirit, the Portland Chamber Orchestra remains a vital part of Portland's cultural landscape, continuing to inspire and engage audiences with its intimate symphony and infinite imagination.