Danbury Music Centre

==Danbury Music Centre== The '''Danbury Music Centre''' is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located at 256 Main Street in Danbury, Connecticut. Housed in a picturesque 19th-century building, the former public library, the Centre has been a cornerstone of the local arts community since its establishment in the 1930s. It is dedicated to providing classical community music experiences through a variety of ensembles and events, many of which are free to the public. ===History=== Founded in the 1930s by Donald Tweedy, the Danbury Music Centre quickly became a hub for musical activity in the Danbury area. Tweedy was instrumental in forming the Danbury Community Chorus and the Young People's Chorus, as well as organizing several small instrumental ensembles. The Centre's early years were marked by a series of professional concerts, the first of which took place in 1935. The 1940s saw the emergence of the Danbury Symphony Orchestra, initially conducted by Henri Nosco of the NBC Orchestra. The following decades brought further expansion, with the establishment of the Danbury Little Symphony (now the Danbury Community Orchestra) and the Summer String Classes during the tenure of conductor John Burnett in the 1950s. In the 1970s, James E. Humphreville took over as conductor of the Danbury Symphony Orchestra, a position he held until 2000. The late 20th century brought significant growth, including the expansion of the Summer Program and the introduction of the Danbury Preparatory String Orchestra. The turn of the millennium saw leadership changes and the addition of new programs such as Afrikan Drumming and a Handbell Choir. Ariel Rudiakov was appointed director of the Danbury Symphony Orchestra in 2006, and the Danbury Music Centre continued to thrive, celebrating its 75th anniversary in the 2010/2011 concert season. ===Mission and Vision=== The mission of the Danbury Music Centre is to sponsor musical organizations that encourage individuals from diverse musical backgrounds to study, perform, and enjoy classical and modern compositions. Its vision is to enrich lives through music and performing arts in a nurturing, inclusive, and creative environment for the community. ===Programs and Performances=== The Centre's programs include the Danbury Symphony Orchestra, Danbury Concert Chorus, Danbury Community Orchestra, Danbury Centre Strings, and the Danbury Community Band. It is also known for its annual Nutcracker Ballet, Chamber Music Intensive, and various summer enrichment programs. The Danbury Music Centre's ensembles have performed at notable events and locations, including the bicentennial celebration of the signing of the United States Constitution in Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, and international tours to Austria, Hungary, Yugoslavia, and Cuba. ===Support and Involvement=== As a non-profit organization, the Danbury Music Centre relies on donations, memberships, sponsorships, and volunteers to sustain its programs and mission. The community is encouraged to support the Centre in various capacities, ensuring the continuation of its role as a beacon for classical music in the greater Danbury area. ==External links== *[http://www.danburymusiccentre.org Official website]