Emory University

The Emory University Symphony Orchestra (EUSO), under the leadership of Paul Bhasin, the Conductor and Director of Orchestral Studies and Schwartz Professor of Music, has reached a significant milestone, celebrating its centennial. For 100 years, the EUSO has been a nationally recognized ensemble, known for its annual season of dynamic performances that showcase major works from the established orchestral repertoire as well as new compositions of the 21st century. The EUSO is an integral part of Emory University's music performance programs, providing students with the opportunity to receive instruction from premier artist faculty, including principals and members of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Vega String Quartet. The ensemble serves as a platform for students to gain a superlative orchestral performance experience. Its members are a diverse group, many of whom have participated in prestigious programs such as the National Youth Orchestra, Interlochen, Brevard, Tanglewood Institute, Verbier Chamber Orchestra, and the Eastern Music Festival, as well as various prominent youth symphony and wind ensemble programs from around the United States and abroad. Annually, the EUSO collaborates with Emory's University Chorus to present masterworks from the symphonic-choral tradition. The orchestra also offers students the chance to perform as soloists through the annual Emory Concerto & Aria Competition. In addition to working with faculty and guest artists, the EUSO has embarked on recording projects, including a full-length CD under contract with Centaur Records featuring concerti performed by principals from the Atlanta and Dallas Symphony Orchestras, as well as current and past Emory faculty. The EUSO is dedicated to expanding the orchestral repertoire and addressing issues of access and representation in symphonic music. It has engaged in Arts & Social Justice collaborations with Atlanta-based archivist and curator Sierra King and has commissioned works from composers such as Brittany Green and Sofia Rocha. The orchestra's performances, including a diverse range of repertoire from Beethoven to Philip Glass, have been regularly featured on Atlanta's National Public Radio affiliate. The orchestra's home is the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts, which includes the 800-seat Emerson Concert Hall, Tharp Rehearsal Hall, and other facilities conducive to musical performance and education. The Schwartz Center, completed in 2003, also celebrated the inauguration of a new concert organ in the 2005-2006 season. Rehearsals for the full orchestra are held twice weekly, ensuring that the ensemble maintains its high standard of performance. General inquiries about the EUSO can be directed to Dr. Paul Bhasin, the Director of Orchestral Studies and Music Director & Conductor. The Emory University Symphony Orchestra remains a beacon of musical excellence and education, fostering the talents of young musicians and contributing to the cultural life of Emory University and the broader community.