Des Moines Symphony

The Des Moines Symphony Orchestra (DMSO) is a cornerstone of the Iowa arts community and a celebrated institution in the Midwest region of the United States. Celebrating its 85th season in 2022-2023, the DMSO has been under the artistic leadership of Music Director Joseph Giunta for over three decades, contributing to its development into one of the nation's esteemed regional orchestras. === Mission and Impact === The Des Moines Symphony Association's mission is to enrich, educate, and inspire the community through the performance of outstanding orchestral music. The Symphony's impact extends beyond concert presentations, as it plays a significant role in the cultural and educational landscape of Des Moines and the surrounding areas. === History === Founded as a member of the League of American Orchestras in 1942, the DMSO has grown into a prominent musical ensemble, known for its Masterworks, Pops, Family, and Education Concerts. The organization has a history of performing with distinguished soloists such as John Browning, Van Cliburn, and Yo-Yo Ma, and has been recognized for its adventurous programming with awards from the League of American Orchestras. The Symphony's dedication to contemporary music is evident in its commissions and world premieres, including the "Symphony in Sculpture" series by Emmy Award-winning composer Steve Heitzeg, inspired by the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park. The Symphony also accepted an invitation to perform Peter Hamlin's "Symphony On A Stick" at the 2016 Iowa State Fair, further showcasing its commitment to innovative and community-centric projects. === Venues and Performances === The DMSO is the principal resident company of the Des Moines Civic Center, an acoustically acclaimed venue seating 2,662 patrons. Here, the Symphony performs a series of seven pairs of Masterworks concerts each season, which are broadcast statewide on Iowa Public Radio Classical. Additionally, the DMSO presents a Pops series, the annual New Year’s Eve Pops, and the highly anticipated free Yankee Doodle Pops concert, drawing audiences sometimes exceeding 100,000. === Education and Outreach === In 2003, the Des Moines Symphony Academy was established, making the DMSO one of only a few American orchestras to integrate an Academy of Music into its core mission. The Academy, located in the historic Temple for Performing Arts, offers comprehensive music education through private lessons, group classes, and youth orchestras, serving over 600 students weekly. The Symphony's educational initiatives also include the annual Fred & Charlotte Hubbell Visiting Artist In Residence Program and school-day Youth Concerts for thousands of schoolchildren. === Leadership === Music Director Joseph Giunta, renowned for his versatility and dynamism, has been pivotal in shaping the orchestra's artistic vision. His tenure has seen the DMSO achieve national acclaim and foster a creative environment for both classical and contemporary works. === Support and Community Engagement === The DMSO's success is bolstered by its community support and volunteer involvement. The organization encourages donations and offers various membership benefits, ensuring the continued presence of great music in Des Moines. The Symphony's "Sound of the City" initiative and various giving programs highlight the importance of public and corporate support in sustaining its mission. The Des Moines Symphony continues to be a vibrant part of the cultural fabric of Iowa, committed to presenting high-quality performances and fostering a love for music across generations.