Behind the scenes at the Sudbury Symphony…
This is the story of your Sudbury Symphony Orchestra—from how we began, to who we are today. Explore and learn about all the people who make up our vibrant organization. Find out what our musicians do with the rest of their time when they’re not gracing the stage. Read the special note from the charismatic Mæstro Vic. Have fun browsing through our photos, or learn about how it all began. Remember, this is your Sudbury Symphony Orchestra…
Founded by the late Emil First in the fall of 1953, the original Symphony was comprised of a group of very interested adults and local music students. The first public performance was held on January 13, 1954.
In 1957, Mr. Eric Woodward succeeded Mr. First as the Symphony’s conductor, and he retained this position for eighteen years. During that period, the orchestra evolved into the Sudbury Philharmonic Society as it combined orchestra and choir.
Following Mr. Woodward’s departure in 1974, the orchestra and the choir became separate entities once again. The choir became The Bel Canto Chorus, and the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra emerged as the newly incorporated, not-for-profit community orchestra that exists today. A new mandate and mission reflected the Symphony’s twofold commitment to music education and to public performance.
In 1975, Dr. Metro Kozak became the SSO’s third conductor, a position he held until his retirement in 1997. Maestro Dr. Victor Sawa, a professional conductor, was hired in the fall of 1997.
Victor, as he is affectionately known, enjoys interacting with the audience during the concerts as he provides keen insights and background to the pieces in that evening’s program. This trademark interaction continues to be a very popular facet of each concert.
The orchestra is composed of approximately thirty-five local musicians from the City of Greater Sudbury and surrounding area. The launching of the Sudbury Symphony Conservatory of Music in 2001 proved to be an exciting step forward for the Symphony. This year, the SSO Conservatory is pleased to announce that Christian Robinson and Alexandra Lee have returned as full-time teaching staff, and welcomes Geoff McCausland; and on a part-time basis, Rachel Churchill and Ian Gibson. The Conservatory offers lessons in violin, cello, flute and percussion.
The Sudbury Symphony Orchestra believes that all students in the City of Greater Sudbury should have access to music education. The Outreach and Education Program is central to the Symphony’s education and community work. The Symphony’s core musicians have a strong commitment to bringing musical outreach and education to area schools through a dynamic in-class performance program, as well as offering group lessons on site at participating schools.
As the SSO celebrates its 33rd season, we thank you, our loyal audience, for your continued support and your belief in the value of the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra.
