Mission
The Hudson Valley Symphony Orchestra brings people together to inspire an appreciation for exceptional music. Through engaging performances of classics to new compositions, and the presentation of the Hudson Valley Symphony Orchestra String Competition winners, the HVSO provides accessible, outstanding musical experiences for communities throughout the region. The Hudson Valley Symphony Orchestra connects with new audiences and the next generation through interactive and educational opportunities, fostering the arts and humanity that unite us.
Vision
Our vision for the future outlines three major tenets: to heighten our artistry, to support our community and foster our common humanity through the expansion of outreach initiatives, and to build a financially sustainable foundation for the future.
Values
We aspire to perform music that lifts the human spirit and moves the soul. We recognize our shared humanity and value the connections that bring together the musicians and communities where we perform. We are passionate about inspiring and mentoring the next generation of young artists.
Our History
The Hudson Valley Symphony Orchestra began its existence as the Dutchess County Philharmonic Orchestra. The brainchild of four Poughkeepsie businessmen who also enjoyed and played classical music, the orchestra began in 1932 as a small group of musicians who eventually gave their first public concert in 1934. One of the original members, George Hagstrom, became the ensemble’s first conductor, and the group consisted of professionals, amateurs, and student musicians from area high schools.
Subsequent conductors of the DCPO were: Ole Windingstad (1945), Claude Monteux (1959), Imre Pallo (1976), and Randall Craig Fleischer (1992).
In 1959, Claude Monteux brought the musicians to prominence, organized as the Hudson Valley Philharmonic Society, Inc., a fully professional regional orchestra, and began educational concerts for area school children that continued through 2018.
Under the baton of beloved (and greatly missed) Maestro Randall Craig Fleischer, the musicians performed a series of classical concerts, Young People’s Concerts, and backed up popular acts such as Kenny Loggins, Josh Groban, Manhattan Transfer, Peter Cetera, The Who, and Fleischer’s own Rocktopia which later made it to Broadway. The orchestra has also performed July 4th concerts, annual Messiah performances, and has performed at Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center.
Under various forms, the orchestra has a long history of serving the communities in Dutchess, Ulster, and surrounding counties, bringing great music to adults and children throughout the Hudson Valley.
Once again, the orchestra musicians renew their commitment to the people of the community by reorganizing as the Hudson Valley Symphony Orchestra and revitalizing performances and educational programming. Beginning with our inaugural concert on May 18, 2024, we will welcome our supporters and subscribers with inspiring music and uplifting artistic experiences. Join us for the next chapter of our journey and help us keep the music playing!