New Bedford Symphony Orchestra

== New Bedford Symphony Orchestra == === Mission and History === The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra (NBSO) is a cornerstone of the cultural life in the South Coast community, with a mission to bring the finest music to the forefront of community engagement. The NBSO strives to enrich the lives of both adults and children through the transformative power of music, delivering concerts of the highest professional standards and educational programs that foster a deep appreciation and understanding of music as an integral part of daily life. The NBSO's inception dates back to 1915, when founder Clarence Arey, a talented musician and educator, established the orchestra to provide his community with access to high-quality classical music performances. Arey's pioneering efforts also led to the creation of the first public high school orchestra program in Massachusetts. His dedication to both the symphony orchestra and music education set the foundation for the NBSO's enduring commitment to these dual objectives. Over the past century, the NBSO has seen significant growth and development, guided by strategic planning and a commitment to its founding principles. Over the last fourteen years, the organization has completed four strategic plans, each covering a three to five-year span, with reviews every three years to ensure continued relevance and effectiveness. This strategic approach has resulted in a tenfold increase in the NBSO's budget, a doubling of the number of concerts presented, and an expansion of educational programs from serving 2,000 children annually to over 8,000. The NBSO is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation, managed by a volunteer Board of Trustees from the South Coast region, ensuring that its governance remains closely connected to the community it serves. === Governance and Staff === The Board of Trustees, led by Chair Sandria R. Parsons, oversees the NBSO's direction and is supported by an Advisory Council. The symphony staff, including Music Director Yaniv Dinur and President and CEO David M. Prentiss, work alongside dedicated professionals to ensure the smooth operation and continued success of the orchestra. === Educational and Community Engagement === The NBSO places a strong emphasis on education and community involvement, offering innovative programs that reach over 25,000 children annually. Recognized nationally for its educational initiatives, the NBSO believes in the power of classical music to make meaningful connections with new generations of students, enriching their lives in multiple ways. === Concerts and Events === The NBSO presents a vibrant Symphony Season and a Chamber Music Series, featuring a diverse range of classical music experiences. With events such as "Three Worlds," "Beautiful Moments," and "Holiday Pops," the NBSO continues to engage audiences with dynamic and inspiring performances. === Support and Donations === As a nonprofit organization, the NBSO relies on the generosity of donors and supporters to sustain its educational programs and concert series. Contributions are vital to maintaining the NBSO's impact on the community and ensuring the legacy of Clarence Arey endures for future generations. For more information about the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, its upcoming concerts, educational programs, or to make a donation, please visit their official website or follow them on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.