Livonia Symphony Orchestra

The Livonia Symphony Orchestra (LSO), established in 1973, is a cornerstone of the cultural landscape in Livonia, Michigan, and the surrounding communities. Initially founded as the Oakway Symphony by Francesco Di Blasi, the ensemble was reincorporated under its current name in 1988, reflecting its commitment to serving the residents of Livonia and neighboring areas. The LSO is recognized as a non-profit, 501(c)(3), tax-exempt Michigan corporation and has been a vibrant musical force in southeast Michigan for five decades. Throughout its illustrious history, the LSO has been under the leadership of only two music directors. The founding director, Francesco DiBlasi, laid the groundwork for the orchestra's growth and development. Following DiBlasi, Maestro Volodymyr Shesiuk took the helm, first joining the orchestra as a violinist and later becoming Music Director and Conductor. Maestro Shesiuk has directed the 65-member orchestra for over 25 years, maintaining a tradition of musical excellence. The orchestra also recognized the contributions of Carl Karoub, who served as the Assistant Conductor until his retirement in 1992. The LSO boasts a roster of 65 to 75 professional and semi-professional musicians and presents a full concert series along with a variety of special events annually. Under the baton of Maestro Shesiuk, the orchestra has thrived, offering audiences a diverse range of programming that includes traditional classical and semi-classical works, Broadway and movie musical concerts, as well as jazz and pops favorites. The orchestra's concerts are known for featuring special guest artists of international acclaim, further enhancing the cultural offerings to its audience. In addition to its concert series, the LSO takes pride in participating in the free Music from the Heart summer concert series, which is sponsored by the Livonia Arts Commission and the Livonia Parks and Recreation Department. This initiative reflects the orchestra's commitment to making music accessible to a wider audience and fostering a love for the arts within the community. The Livonia Symphony Orchestra's mission is threefold: to provide musical enrichment and enjoyment to the people of Livonia and its surrounding communities, to offer musical educational experiences for youth, and to afford professional growth opportunities for musicians to enhance their artistic talents. The LSO operates with a strong belief that music is a universal language capable of changing and enriching lives, and it strives to build a community through the love of music. The LSO's core values include a commitment to excellence, fostering strong relationships, sharing a passion for music, and creating fulfilling experiences for all involved. These values have earned the orchestra recognition as Livonia’s top volunteer organization, along with awards from the Livonia Community Foundation and citations from the Governor, State Representatives, and the City of Livonia. As the Livonia Symphony Orchestra approaches its 50th anniversary, plans are underway for a celebration that will honor its significant contributions to the cultural fabric of the region. The LSO continues to be a beacon of artistic expression and community engagement, with its 24-Hour Music Line and headquarters located at 37637 Five Mile Rd., Livonia, Michigan.