The Boston Civic Symphony celebrates its centennial with a grand performance.
The Boston Civic Symphony is marking its centennial with a series of concerts that celebrate a century of music and community. Founded in 1923 by Joseph Wagner, the Symphony has evolved from a high school orchestra into a vital musical institution. This year, they will culminate the celebrations with a performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, inviting the audience to join in a sing-along. As they look to the future, the Symphony continues to play a key role in enriching the community through music education and performance.
In the heart of Boston, a remarkable celebration is brewing as the Boston Civic Symphony commemorates a whole century of bringing music and joy to the community. Founded back in the early 1920s, the Symphony has evolved into a cherished musical institution in the city that refuses to slow down.
It all began in 1923, when Joseph Wagner took the reins as the assistant director of music in Boston’s public schools. In a bold move, Wagner gathered a spirited group of high school students, and in no time, they transformed their passion into a full-fledged orchestra. The result? The Boston Civic Symphony was born, and it hasn’t missed a beat in the past 100 years.
The Symphony delights audiences with a series of concerts each season hosted at prestigious venues like the New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall. This centennial season is set to culminate with a performance that’s bound to leave a lasting legacy: a rendition of Beethoven’s electrifying Symphony No. 9. Not only will this concert showcase incredible talent, but it’s also a heartfelt thank you to this fantastic city that has supported the Symphony through thick and thin.
A unique twist on this performance is that it invites the audience to become part of the music! The Symphony is partnering with the Chorus Pro Musica, which is celebrating its own 75th anniversary, for a sing-along. This collaboration will feature a chorus of enthusiastic voices joining in to sing the uplifting “Ode to Joy”. For those eager to sing their hearts out, vocal scores will be readily available on the Symphony’s website, ensuring everyone can be a part of this joyous occasion.
Over the years, the Boston Civic Symphony has grown and diversified. While it initially focused on talented high school students, it now includes pre-professional musicians from local music schools like the New England Conservatory, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, and Longy School of Music. Interestingly, many musicians who have played in the Boston Symphony Orchestra during their student years also had their starts right in the Civic Symphony, proving that this institution is a nurturing ground for the talents of tomorrow.
The Civic Symphony isn’t just about music; it’s about the relationships built over the years. Many past musicians, even when pursuing different careers, remain deeply connected, often returning to play with the Symphony as their love for music persists. An example of this commitment can be seen in long-time member Nancy Hayes, who was so inspired by her Civic experiences that she founded her own community music school.
As the current music director has taken the baton since 2017, the Symphony continues to emphasize the core values of dedication and passionate music-making. A concert on June 22, 2023, in Nantucket will further cement the Symphony’s role in the community, as they perform a benefit concert for local music education alongside young musicians from Nantucket schools. Through these collaborations, there is a fervent hope that the Civic Symphony will thrive into its second century, bringing even more music and joy to the citizens of Boston.
The 100-year journey of the Boston Civic Symphony reflects the heart and soul of the city. Whether you have a background in music or simply enjoy the enchanting melodies, it’s clear that this Symphony holds a special place for everyone.
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