Idaho State-Civic Symphony

### About the Idaho State Civic Symphony Youth Orchestra (ISCSYO) The Idaho State Civic Symphony Youth Orchestra (ISCSYO) is a distinguished ensemble that serves the young and dedicated music students of Southeast Idaho. Under the artistic direction of Jan Eddington, the ISCSYO offers a platform for these students to enhance their technical skills and musicianship through the performance of challenging repertoire in a professional setting. The orchestra's activities include regular rehearsals, held on Tuesday afternoons at the Idaho State University's Stephens Performing Arts Center, and two concert performances each season. These experiences not only foster artistic growth and excellence but also impart valuable life skills to the participants. The young musicians involved in the ISCSYO consistently describe their involvement as a positive, educational, and fulfilling experience. Jan Eddington, the conductor and artistic director of the ISCSYO, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the ensemble. She completed her studies in Music Education at Brigham Young University and earned a Master's Degree in Music Education from Southern Oregon University. As a seasoned performer on the Bassoon and a conductor of student ensembles across various states and in Europe, Ms. Eddington has been recognized for her contributions to music education, including being named Idaho Music Educator of the Year. Her commitment to music education continues through her private studio and work as an Honor Band Clinician, where she is dedicated to helping students exceed their own expectations. ### History of the Idaho State Civic Symphony (ISCS) The Idaho State Civic Symphony stands as the oldest orchestra in Idaho, with its origins tracing back to the early 1900s. The Symphony's supporting organization, the Idaho State-Civic Symphony Association, was incorporated in 1977 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable corporation. The Association's mission is to promote and foster an appreciation for the musical arts within the community, provide incentives for musical talent development, and facilitate the performance of guest artists. Currently, the Symphony represents a collaborative effort between Idaho State University (ISU) and the community. The Artistic Director is a faculty member at ISU, with many students participating in the orchestra for class credit, and numerous faculty members holding principal chair positions. The Symphony's performance calendar includes five classical concerts, a Pops concert, and Family Concerts throughout the season. The Idaho State-Civic Symphony Association is governed by a volunteer board of directors, which consists of 30 members, and is supported by an Executive Director. The Association oversees the funding and support for the orchestra's performances and educational programs and employs a Personnel Manager for the 90-member orchestra, a student Properties Manager, and a Music Librarian. Since April 2005, the Symphony has benefited from the exceptional acoustics of the Joseph C. Jensen Grand Concert Hall at the L.E. and Thelma E. Stephens Performing Arts Center. This 123,000 square-foot facility, designed with a classic hub-and-spoke architecture centered around the Marshall Rotunda lobby, not only serves as a pre-concert and chamber music venue but also stands as a testament to the Symphony's commitment to its mission of enriching lives through music in a spectacular home.