Illinois Symphony Orchestra

The Illinois Symphony Orchestra (ISO) is a distinguished professional orchestra that plays a pivotal role in the cultural landscape of central Illinois. With a mission to enrich the community through the power and beauty of orchestral music, the ISO captivates over 35,000 patrons annually in the Bloomington-Normal and Springfield areas, as well as the broader surrounding region. Founded to serve the community with a variety of musical offerings, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra presents a diverse range of programs including symphony orchestra concerts, chamber orchestra performances, and a Concerts for Kids series in each community it serves. The ISO's commitment to music education is evident through its outreach programs, which are designed to engage audiences of all ages. Its educational initiatives include the Itsy Arts and Music Matters programs, targeting pre-K and elementary schools, while also reaching out to middle schools, high schools, universities, community organizations, and senior centers through guest artist residencies and performances by musicians and ensembles. The orchestra's dedication to fostering musical talent is further demonstrated by its Around the Town Chamber Music Series and the virtual Sunday at Six Recital Series, both of which provide additional platforms for live music. Operating with a budget of approximately $1.3 million, the ISO is a testament to the community's support and passion for orchestral music. In a significant expansion of its youth programs, the ISO acquired the Sangamon Valley Youth Symphony (SVYS) in July 2020. The SVYS, which originated in the early 1970s by a dedicated group of parents, music teachers, and musicians, was established in response to the discontinuation of school orchestra programs. Now integrated as the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras (ISYO), the program includes Starter and Junior Strings, Preparatory Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, and Symphony Orchestra, collectively serving over 150 students. The ISO's commitment to education and community engagement is further reinforced through its partnership with the University of Illinois Springfield-School of Music and Illinois State University’s Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts and School of Music, known as the Partnership in Education and Community Engagement (PEACE). The Illinois Symphony Orchestra is governed by a Board of Directors and supported by a dedicated group of Life Members. The organization also offers a range of employment opportunities and regularly updates the public with ISO News. As it continues to grow and serve the community, the ISO invites patrons, donors, and sponsors to get involved and contribute to the orchestra's enduring success and the vibrancy of the arts in Illinois.