Marquette Symphony Orchestra

The Marquette Symphony Orchestra (MSO), founded in 1996 by Dr. Donald Grant and Janis Shier Norton Peterson, enriches Marquette, Michigan’s cultural landscape. Its mission is to provide professional orchestral performances and collaborate with the community, schools, and Northern Michigan University. Offering classical, pops, and newly-commissioned works, the MSO attracts audiences from across the region, involving youth and ensuring accessibility. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2021-22, the MSO employs dozens of local musicians, delights hundreds of children, and entertains thousands of patrons. Primarily funded by ticket sales, donations, and grants, it remains dedicated to transparency, strong governance, and financial accountability.