Emory University Symphony Orchestra

About Emory University Symphony Orchestra The Emory University Symphony Orchestra (EUSO) is a distinguished ensemble within the Department of Music at Emory University, with a history spanning over a century. Under the baton of Paul Bhasin, who serves as the Conductor and Director of Orchestral Studies as well as the Schwartz Professor of Music, EUSO has established itself as a nationally recognized orchestra. EUSO presents an annual season of dynamic performances that include major works from the established orchestral repertoire alongside new compositions of the 21st century. The orchestra's commitment to musical excellence is reflected in its collaborations with premier artist faculty, including principals and members of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Vega String Quartet. These collaborations provide students with a superlative orchestral performance experience. The ensemble is composed of students who bring a diverse range of experiences to the orchestra. Many members 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 prominent youth symphony and wind ensemble programs from around the United States and abroad. EUSO often combines forces with Emory’s University Chorus to perform masterworks of the symphonic-choral tradition. The orchestra also offers students the chance to appear as soloists through the annual Emory Concerto & Aria Competition. The orchestra's recent projects include a full-length CD recording 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. EUSO has also been involved in premiering new works, such as Laura Schwendinger's concerto for harp, and has initiated a Call for Compositions contest aimed at BIPOC female composers. EUSO's educational component is enriched by masterclasses with renowned artists, including Ray Chen, Itamar Zorman, James Dunham, David Schifrin, Norman Fischer, Soovin Kim, Daniel Hope, Zuill Bailey, and Roberto Diaz, among others. Reflecting the liberal arts environment of Emory University, the orchestra draws its membership from across various disciplines on campus. While many members are music double majors, the ensemble also welcomes qualified non-majors and graduate students. The EUSO is committed to expanding the orchestral repertoire and addressing issues of access and representation in symphonic music. In this vein, it has worked with Emory Arts on Arts & Social Justice collaborations and commissioning projects. The orchestra performs in the state-of-the-art Schwartz Center for Performing Arts, which features the 800-seat Emerson Concert Hall, Tharp Rehearsal Hall, and additional facilities for music education and practice. EUSO's presence extends beyond the concert hall, with musicians featured on Atlanta’s National Public Radio affiliate, live performances at the Siskel Film Center in Chicago, appearances on NBC and NBA-TV, and collaborations with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Brass. For general inquiries about the Emory University Symphony Orchestra, contact Dr. Paul Bhasin, Director of Orchestral Studies and Music Director & Conductor. Copyright 2019 Emory University Symphony Orchestra