Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra

The Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra (GLCO) is a prominent musical institution that has been serving the northern Michigan area since its inception in 2000. Initially formed by a small group of professional musicians, the Orchestra was established to fulfill the region's need for classical orchestral music. Over the years, GLCO has expanded its offerings to include classical concerts, pop series concerts, and smaller neighborhood recital concerts. The organization has also developed educational programs aimed at inspiring and transforming students in the community and local schools. With the mission to entertain, inspire, and educate, the Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra has become Northern Michigan's champion of classical chamber music. The Orchestra presents a diverse range of concert themes, showcasing the works of traditional composers as well as innovative contemporary artists. Its programming is designed to appeal to a wide audience, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Under the leadership of gifted conductor and Music Director Libor Ondras, the Orchestra boasts a roster of over 75 professional musicians. These musicians challenge audiences to think differently about classical music through their performances. The GLCO's season features main stage concerts, Sunday Series concerts, and summertime Little Bay LIVE small ensemble performances. These collaborative performances involve local organizations such as the Mackinac Arts Council, Harbor Springs Chamber of Commerce, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Raven Hill Discovery Center, and others. In addition to its instrumentalists, the Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra has a chorus of over 40 auditioned singers who perform with the orchestra, further enriching its musical offerings. The organization is committed to bringing powerful musical experiences to the region's small towns, promoting cultural diversity and personal enrichment. By collaborating with school programs and engaging with audiences of all ages, GLCO plays a vital role in creating vibrant communities for future generations. The Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra is headquartered at 219 East Lake Street, Petoskey, Michigan. It invites the public to connect with its mission of providing entertainment, education, and inspiration through live, professional, community-connected orchestral programming. The organization is supported by various sponsors and donors, and it encourages community involvement through volunteer opportunities and educational initiatives. Among the notable musicians associated with the GLCO is Dr. Eric Lawson, who serves as the Assistant Concertmaster. Dr. Lawson has had a varied career as a violinist, violist, conductor, and professor, with performances and academic appointments across the United States and internationally. His contributions to the musical and civic communities of Michigan, including his role with the Alpena Symphony Orchestra and his service as an Alpena County Commissioner, highlight the caliber of talent and dedication within the GLCO. Copyright 2023 by the Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra, the organization continues to uphold its commitment to musical excellence and community engagement. With generous support from its sponsors and the dedication of its musicians, staff, and board, the GLCO remains a beacon of classical music in the Great Lakes region.