Muscatine Symphony Orchestra

The Muscatine Symphony Orchestra (MSO), operating under the Muscatine Symphony Orchestra Association (MSOA), is a non-profit organization established in 2003. The original Muscatine Symphony Orchestra was active for 29 years, beginning in 1887, but disbanded in 1916 due to the wars. The current iteration of the orchestra was formed in 2000 by Jan Phillips and Beverly Everett, with the first concert held in 2001. In 2002, a board of directors was established, followed by the creation of a symphony guild in 2003. After Everett's resignation in 2004, Brian Dollinger, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, became the conductor and music director. The orchestra received the Iowa non-profit volunteer award in 2005-2006 for its community service. MSO's mission is to enhance the cultural life of the Greater Muscatine Community by delivering high-quality symphonic music and offering music education opportunities. The symphony's regular season includes two free community concerts and five regular concerts, appealing to a diverse audience.