Youngstown Symphony Orchestra

The Youngstown Symphony Orchestra (YSO) is a distinguished musical institution with a rich history dating back to 1926. It was founded by brothers Michael and Carmine Ficocelli, who were both conductors, and was initially introduced as The Little Youngstown Symphony. The original ensemble consisted of 12 players, who were on average 16 years old. The YSO's first program was broadcast on WKBN radio, and the orchestra held its first public concert in 1929. In 1935, the Junior Chamber of Commerce took an interest in the orchestra, leading to the removal of the word 'little' from the organization's name. Recognizing the need for a permanent administrative structure, the Junior Chamber of Commerce established the Youngstown Symphony Society. That year, four concerts were presented, and performances took place in the Concert Hall at Stambaugh Auditorium. By the 1937-1938 season, the orchestra's concerts were attended by over 2,300 people. The orchestra entered a new era in the 1950-1951 season following 25 years of service by the Ficocelli Brothers, who then resigned. The Youngstown Symphony Society underwent reorganization, and John Krueger, a 29-year-old composer and conductor, was hired in 1951. Under his leadership, the orchestra was renamed The Youngstown Philharmonic Orchestra and expanded to include the Youngstown Philharmonic Chorus and the Junior Orchestra. After fifteen years, Krueger resigned and was succeeded by Franz Bibo, who changed the orchestra's name to The Youngstown Symphony Orchestra. Maestro Bibo initiated a successful series of locally-produced operas during his twelve-season tenure. A significant development in the YSO's history was the acquisition of the Warner Theatre, which was built in 1931 by Harry, Jack, and Albert Warner as a memorial to their late brother Sam. The theatre, which had flourished until the early 1950s, faced closure in 1968 due to the declining movie business. The Youngstown Symphony Society attempted to purchase the building, but lacked sufficient funds. However, an anonymous donation of $250,000 by Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Powers on September 19, 1968, secured the theatre for the society. Following the acquisition, the theatre was renamed Edward W. Powers Auditorium, and on September 20, 1969, it reopened with a gala performance of Die Fledermaus conducted by Maestro Bibo. Today, the Youngstown Symphony Society continues to focus on the redevelopment of the YSO, aiming to preserve and advance this historic entity for future generations. The organization is committed to implementing new programs, building a strong support structure, and maintaining a professional orchestra that delivers quality performances. The mission of the Youngstown Symphony Society is to foster appreciation and familiarity with fine music, ensuring the continued presentation of traditional symphonic repertoire by the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra. It also supports the establishment of American and contemporary music, while addressing the needs of a diverse community. The Youngstown Symphony Orchestra operates out of the DeYor Performing Arts Center, located at 260 W. Federal Street, Youngstown, OH 44503. The organization can be reached at 330.259.9651 and is open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, with doors opening 90 minutes prior to showtimes.