Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra

The Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra (IVSO) is a distinguished American orchestra with a rich history of bringing live orchestral music to the community since its inaugural season in 1949-50. With a mission to entertain and inspire, the IVSO has been presenting a wide repertoire of music from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary periods. The orchestra has been led by a series of notable conductors, from its first, Russell Harvey, who served from 1949 to 1960, to the Brazilian-born Lucia Matos who conducted from 2009 to 2018. Starting with the 2019-2020 season, Dr. Daniel Sommerville took the helm as the 18th music director and conductor. Dr. Sommerville, also a professor of music at the Conservatory of Music of Wheaton College, is known for his work with the award-winning Wheaton College Symphony Orchestra and his collaborations with eminent artists across various genres. His educational background includes degrees from the University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh and Northwestern University, where he specialized in conducting and composition. The IVSO is governed by a Board of Directors, which includes community members from across the Illinois Valley. The Board is responsible for the business and development of the orchestra, ensuring that the IVSO continues to deliver high-quality performances and engage the community. The IVSO Guild, a nonprofit organization, supports the orchestra by enhancing awareness and interest in its activities. Guild members contribute through various services such as hosting receptions, ushering, and providing flowers. The Guild also financially sponsors the Harp Chair, demonstrating its commitment to the orchestra's success. Education and community engagement are central to the IVSO's vision. The annual Young Performers Competition and Concert, initiated in 1968, encourages local youth to audition and perform with the orchestra. The IVSO has also established traditions such as the bi-annual Nutcracker ballet, in collaboration with local dance academies, and periodic performances of choral-symphonic works like Handel's "The Messiah." The IVSO's dedication to education extends to annual performances at area schools, fostering an appreciation for orchestral music among young audiences. The orchestra's commitment to quality and education is further demonstrated through program notes and conductor's comments that provide insights into the music and its composers. Throughout its history, the IVSO has not only entertained but also inspired the Illinois Valley community with its performances. With a focus on featuring both local and internationally acclaimed soloists, the orchestra continues to uphold its vision of engaging and educating the public, while striving to attract the best musicians, soloists, and board members to ensure the highest quality performances for a growing audience.