History:

The Illinois Symphony Orchestra is unique in its diversity and musical ambassadorship, as its members represent the countries of Russia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Syria, Macedonia, Italy, Ireland, Switzerland, Taiwan, China, Australia, South America, Canada and America. The majority of our musicians live in the cities of Chicago and St. Louis, as well as in Springfield, Bloomington-Normal, central and southern Illinois and the surrounding states. Many serve on the faculty of prestigious universities and others use the orchestra as a platform from which to launch major orchestral and solo careers. This breadth of musical cultures and personalities brings an invigorating freshness and passion to performances.

The Illinois Symphony Orchestra performs at multiple venues in central Illinois including Sangamon Auditorium on the campus of the University of Illinois at Springfield, St. Agnes Catholic Church in Springfield, the new Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, Second Presbyterian Church in downtown Bloomington, the Illinois State Fairgrounds, Douglas and Miller Parks and this season will debut in Quincy and at the renowned Ravinia Festival in Chicago.  These diverse locations allow the orchestra to perform a wide range of repertoire for audiences of all ages and backgrounds in both urban and rural areas as we strive to fulfill our mission:  The Illinois Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to providing a wide range of professional concert experiences for people of all ages, races, and means.   Recognizing that live music has the potential to transform and rejuvenate, to encourage and inspire, we believe that the Illinois Symphony Orchestra is a vital cultural resource, an educational partner, and an invaluable enhancement to the quality of life in Springfield and Bloomington/Normal.