Burlington Symphony Orchestra

The Burlington Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is a distinguished volunteer symphony orchestra that has been a significant part of the Burlington-Hamilton community's musical heritage since its establishment in 1973. The BSO is dedicated to bringing quality music to the public at affordable prices and offers a diverse range of challenging concert programs. Additionally, the orchestra is known for its annual Young Artists' Competition, which provides young musicians with the opportunity to perform solo works with a full orchestra. The BSO's journey began as the McMaster Symphony Orchestra in September 1973, under the leadership of Dr. Lee Hepner. The orchestra's inaugural concert took place at the Mohawk College Theatre on November 29, 1973. By 1979, the BSO was performing at the Great Hall of Hamilton Place to audiences of up to 1,200 people. The orchestra achieved charitable status in 1981, and its programming continued to be ambitious and innovative, as evidenced by a concert featuring soloist Valerie Tryon on February 7, 1982. After separating from McMaster University in 1988, the orchestra was renamed the Greater Hamilton Symphony Association and became known as Symphony Hamilton. In 2011, the orchestra rebranded as 'Symphony on the Bay', reflecting its connection to the Hamilton-Burlington area and coinciding with its move to the Burlington Performing Arts Centre. The name change to the Burlington Symphony Orchestra occurred in 2019, further solidifying the orchestra's commitment to Burlington's musical culture while maintaining its relationship with the Hamilton region. The BSO has had several music directors over the years. Following the death of Lee Hepner in 1986, Matthew Airhart took over, and the orchestra was subsequently led by a series of guest conductors. Clyde Mitchell became the music director in 1990, followed by James R. McKay in 1995, who, after a 19-year tenure, was honored as Music Director Emeritus. Denis Mastromonaco was appointed as the Music Director in March 2019. Throughout its history, the BSO has been a beacon in the local music scene, with over 700 musicians contributing to its legacy. Many of these musicians have gone on to have successful careers in Canada and internationally. The orchestra has collaborated with various local ensembles, enhancing its concerts and community outreach. The Young Artists Competition, which began in 1991, has been a platform for showcasing emerging talent in the region. The BSO's endeavors have been supported by various granting bodies, including the Ontario Arts Council, the City of Burlington, the Burlington Foundation, and others. It has performed with numerous regional groups, such as the Hamilton Suzuki School of Music, the Hamilton Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, and the Burlington Civic Chorale, among others. The Burlington Symphony Orchestra continues to play a vital role in the cultural life of the Hamilton and Burlington areas, fostering musical excellence and providing opportunities for musicians and audiences alike to engage with symphonic music.