Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra

The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) is a prestigious American orchestra based in Rochester, New York. Founded in 1922, the RPO has a long-standing tradition of musical excellence and versatility, and it is deeply committed to engaging with and enriching the community through the art of music. Over the years, the orchestra has been under the baton of notable music directors such as Eugene Goossens, José Iturbi, Erich Leinsdorf, David Zinman, and Conductor Laureate Christopher Seaman. The RPO presents up to 150 concerts annually, reaching nearly 200,000 people through its performances, education, and community engagement programs. These activities extend beyond the concert hall to schools and community centers throughout the region, with a particular focus on programs designed for school-aged children. The RPO's dedication to education is exemplified by the appointment of Michael Butterman as the Principal Conductor for Education and Outreach, a pioneering role in the United States that emphasizes the orchestra's commitment to youth and education. In its 84th season, the RPO continues to inspire audiences with performances at the highest artistic level. The orchestra has been recognized with the New York State Governor’s Arts Award and has received two ASCAP awards for adventurous programming. The RPO's concerts are supported in part by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts, Monroe County, the City of Rochester, and American Airlines, which is the official airline of the RPO. The RPO's concert offerings include a diverse range of series such as Philharmonics, Pops, OrKIDstra, Sunday Matinees, and special holiday events. The OrKIDstra series, in particular, is designed for families with young children aged 3-9 and provides an engaging introduction to the orchestra. The RPO also celebrates cultural events and heritage months, such as African American History Month, with concerts featuring works by African American composers and themed programming. Beyond the stage, the RPO is involved in various community initiatives, including the "100 Acts of Giving Back" program. The orchestra maintains a close relationship with the community through the Rochester Philharmonic League and offers opportunities for young artists through auditions and competitions. The RPO's leadership includes a dedicated Board of Directors and staff, and the orchestra benefits from the support of its donors and volunteers. The RPO George Eastman Legacy Society is one of the ways in which supporters can contribute to the orchestra's future. The RPO also provides a platform for its patrons to stay informed and engaged through publications like Bravo Magazine and an active online presence. With a mission to enrich the lives of its community members through music, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra stands as a beacon of cultural and artistic excellence. Its performances, educational outreach, and community involvement continue to make a significant impact on the city of Rochester and beyond.