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==Rockford Symphony Orchestra== The '''Rockford Symphony Orchestra''' (RSO) is a prominent cultural entity in Northern Illinois, recognized for its commitment to creating vibrant music experiences that enlighten, educate, and entertain the community. The orchestra's history dates back to 1934 when it was established to commemorate Rockford’s centennial. It became an incorporated entity in 1943. Since its inception, the RSO has transitioned from a community orchestra, consisting largely of amateur musicians, to the professional ensemble it is today. ===Mission=== The mission of the RSO is to lead in the creation of vibrant music experiences that enlighten, educate, and entertain. This mission is carried out through a variety of public performances, as well as education and outreach programs. ===History=== The RSO has a rich history of musical leadership and innovation. The orchestra's first Music Director and Manager, Arthur Zack, served for 27 years and was instrumental in the establishment of the Rockford Area Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Rockford Symphony Orchestra Guild. In 1969, the RSO became the parent organization of the '''Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra''' (RSYO), providing the region’s only full orchestra training opportunity for students. Following Arthur Zack's tenure, Crawford Gates took over as music director in 1970, inviting celebrated guest artists to perform with the RSO, including Van Cliburn, Victor Borge, Phyllis Diller, and Benny Goodman. Charles Bornstein succeeded Gates in 1986, bringing an intellectual and artistic vision to the orchestra. In 1991, Steven Larsen was appointed as the fourth music director, significantly expanding the orchestra’s repertoire and attracting high-caliber musicians. Under his leadership, the RSO added a pops series, an outdoor summer performance series, and youth concerts. The RSO has hosted numerous classical and pops artists, such as Peter Schickele, Rick Nielsen, Dionne Warwick, André Watts, Eugene Fodor, Itzhak Perlman, Yo Yo Ma, Rachel Barton Pine, Daniel Rodriguez, Stefan Jackiw, and Kristin Chenoweth. In recognition of its contribution to the community, the RSO received the 2021 Excelsior Award from the Rockford Register Star for excellence in community service and improving lives in the Rockford region. Steven Larsen retired in December 2021 after a remarkable 30-year tenure with the orchestra and was honored with the title of Music Director Emeritus. Following an international search, Yaniv Attar was appointed as the fifth Music Director of the RSO in January 2023. ===Performance Venues=== The RSO offices are housed within the Riverfront Museum Park. The orchestra performs at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, a historic 1927 atmospheric movie palace that has been transformed into a state-of-the-art facility. The center features a large stage, an orchestra pit, 2,200 seats, a fully restored interior, an acoustical enhancement system, and is fully accessible for audience members with special needs. ==External Links== * [RSO Official Website] * [Digital Concert Guide] * [RSO Merchandise] * [Musician Portal] [[Category:American orchestras]] [[Category:Musical groups established in 1934]] [[Category:Rockford, Illinois]] [[Category:1934 establishments in Illinois]]