Midland Community Orchestra

The Midland Community Orchestra (MCO) is a vibrant ensemble that has been providing volunteer musicians in the Midland area with the opportunity to perform, and local residents with the enjoyment of free concerts since its inception. The orchestra's history dates back to 1991 when three friends—Bob Ralston, Larry Guenther, and Dr. Vern Stenger—recognized the need for another community orchestra in Midland. Their vision was to create an inclusive space for musicians to share their talents with the community. The inaugural concert of the MCO, then known as the Midland Civic Orchestra, took place on Sunday, February 9, 1992, in the Central Intermediate Auditorium. Under the baton of Bob Ralston, the orchestra featured soloists Tim Frank on violin and Karl Krummel on oboe. This event marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition of musical excellence and community service. The Midland Symphony Board of Managers played a crucial role in supporting the establishment of the orchestra, while the Midland Public Schools provided essential resources such as rehearsal space and access to music libraries. The orchestra's second concert was held on April 26, 1992, featuring soloists Grant VonWald on clarinet and Paul Clulo on trumpet. In the following year, the ensemble was renamed the Midland Community Orchestra, and Robert T. Ralston embarked on his second season as conductor—a tenure that would last for 16 years and significantly shape the orchestra's direction and growth. Upon his retirement, Bob Ralston passed the leadership to Tim Frank, who conducted the orchestra for two years. The MCO continued to evolve with Wendy Hohmeyer taking on the role of conductor in the fall of 2009. The orchestra's commitment to musical excellence and community engagement was further strengthened in the spring of 2015 when Gina Provenzano was appointed as conductor, a position she continues to hold. The Midland Community Orchestra has consistently been funded solely by the generosity of individuals, matching grants, and gifts, reflecting the community's strong support and appreciation for the arts. The MCO's dedication to its mission is evident in its diverse programming, educational initiatives, and ongoing efforts to enrich the cultural life of Midland. For more information about the Midland Community Orchestra, including concert schedules, membership, and how to support the ensemble, please visit their official website at www.midlandcommunityorchestra.com.