Reno Chamber Orchestra

The Reno Chamber Orchestra (RCO) is a distinguished musical organization based in Reno, Nevada, dedicated to delivering intimate and inspirational musical experiences to the community. The RCO was founded in 1974 through the collaborative efforts of its founding Music Director and Conductor, Vahe Khochayan, and a group of musicians primarily associated with casino showroom orchestras. The ensemble's inaugural performance took place on December 15, 1974, at the Reno Musician's Union hall, situated at 124 W. Taylor street in what is now known as Midtown Reno. Over the course of its history, spanning 49 seasons, the Reno Chamber Orchestra has experienced significant growth and development. The organization currently presents five regular season concert sets annually and is the proud host of a nationally recognized chamber music festival. The RCO is committed to fostering community partnerships that expand access to classical music for all audiences. Additionally, the organization has recently introduced a revised concerto competition aimed at nurturing the musical talents of Nevada's youth. Throughout its illustrious history, the RCO and the associated Nevada Chamber Music Festival (NCMF) have welcomed thousands of musicians, including world-renowned guest artists and celebrities. Some notable figures who have graced the organization's stage include Leonard Nimoy, Itzhak Perlman, Toni Tennille, Noah Bendix-Balgley, and Robert Levin. The RCO's excellence has been acknowledged through various accolades, including recognition in the Best of Reno awards, and five of its musicians have been honored with the Governor’s Award for Artistic Achievement. In July 2021, the RCO appointed its third Music Director, Kelly Kuo, who brought a fresh perspective to the organization. The NCMF saw its first dedicated Artistic Director, Clive Greensmith, take the helm in January 2019, further solidifying the festival's reputation for artistic excellence. The mission of the Reno Chamber Orchestra is to engage and inspire the community with vibrant music-making by the Chamber Orchestra and chamber ensembles. The RCO's vision is encapsulated in its commitment to superb music, shared experiences, and enriched lives, reflecting its role as a cultural beacon in the Reno area and beyond.