Wichita Symphony Orchestra

The Wichita Symphony Orchestra is a distinguished institution and one of the oldest arts organizations in Kansas, having been established in 1944. With a history spanning over seven decades, the orchestra has become a vital part of the cultural landscape in Wichita and the surrounding region. Its mission is to enrich, educate, and entertain a diverse audience of all ages through the performance of orchestral music, contributing to the vibrancy and vitality of the community. Throughout its existence, the Wichita Symphony Orchestra has demonstrated a commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement. It offers a broad range of performances, including a Masterworks series, Pops concerts, Special Events, Family Concerts, and free community performances that are accessible to the entire city. The orchestra's dedication to education is evident through its Young People's Concerts and a comprehensive Youth Orchestras & Ensembles Program, alongside ongoing audience education initiatives. The governance of the orchestra is overseen by a Board of Directors, composed of respected members and leaders within the Wichita community. The support from the community has been a cornerstone of the orchestra's success, with financial and volunteer assistance stemming from subscribers, contributors, the Wichita Symphony Ambassadors, and generous local sponsors. This collective backing has enabled the orchestra to thrive and continue delivering exceptional musical experiences to south-central Kansas. The Wichita Symphony Orchestra has seen a number of esteemed conductors over the years, with Daniel Hege currently leading since the 2010/11 season. Past conductors have included Andrew Sewell, Zuohuang Chen, Michael Palmer, Francois Huybrechts, James Robertson, and Orien Dalley, each contributing to the orchestra's rich history and development. The organization is also a recipient of funding for general operational support from the City of Wichita, highlighting its recognized role in the cultural and artistic enrichment of the area. The Wichita Symphony Orchestra remains dedicated to its mission and looks forward to continuing its tradition of bringing high-quality orchestral music to its audiences.