Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra

==Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra (NISO)== The '''Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra''' (NISO) is a distinguished ensemble that brings together the most talented musicians from the tri-state area. The orchestra is characterized by its diverse membership, which includes adults from various age groups and exceptionally skilled music students from local high schools and colleges. A significant number of these young musicians, particularly from high schools, are beneficiaries of scholarships that support their private music education. A notable aspect of NISO is the involvement of over 25 students from the [[Dordt University]] Music Department, who play a vital role in the orchestra's performances. Additionally, members of the Dordt University music faculty contribute to the orchestra by serving as teaching principals, thereby enhancing the educational and musical experience for all members. NISO has an established tradition of presenting three concerts each season, with a special emphasis on youth engagement through their annual Concert for Children. This event, held every November, is specifically designed for 4th, 5th, and 6th-grade students and has historically attracted an audience of over 1,000 young learners. All performances by NISO take place at 7:30 PM in the B.J. Haan Auditorium, a venue acclaimed for its acoustics and ambiance, located on the campus of Dordt University in Sioux Center, Iowa. The orchestra's existence and continued success are made possible by the generous support of various entities, including Dordt University, the Sioux Center Recreation and Arts Council, Friends of the Symphony, and a network of individual patrons, organizations, and business establishments. ===Personnel=== The orchestra is under the leadership of Dr. '''Onsby Rose''', who serves as the Principal Conductor & Music Director of NISO. Dr. Rose holds a distinguished position as the Director of Instrumental Studies and an Associate Professor of Music at Dordt University, where he conducts the Dordt University Wind Symphony and oversees other musical ensembles. His extensive background includes a Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) in conducting from The Ohio State University, a career as a trombonist in the U.S. Marine Corps fleet bands, and various teaching and conducting roles across the United States. Dr. Rose is also an emerging composer with works performed internationally. Dr. '''Angela Holt Carlson''' serves as the Assistant Conductor of NISO and the Director & Conductor of the Northwest Iowa Symphony Youth Orchestra (NISYO). Her educational journey began in East Texas and led her to earn degrees from Wheaton College Conservatory of Music and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Dr. Carlson's professional experience spans teaching, conducting, and advocating for music education, with a particular interest in chamber wind literature. '''Lyle Van Ravenswaay''' holds the position of General Manager of NISO. With a tenure as Director of Bands at Western Christian High School since 1997, Van Ravenswaay brings a wealth of experience to the orchestra. His academic credentials include a degree from Dordt University and a Masters in Music Education from the University of South Dakota. '''Kendra Thompson''' serves as the Executive Assistant for NISO. With a background in English and Theology and fifteen years in ministry, Thompson joined the NISO staff team to manage the administrative needs of the symphony, especially after a year without a concert season due to unforeseen circumstances. The Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra continues to thrive, fostering a love for classical music in the region and providing enriching experiences for both the musicians and the audience. With the 2023-2024 Season Tickets now available, NISO looks forward to another year of outstanding performances and community engagement.