Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's History

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) is one of the premier orchestras in the United States, known for its artistic excellence and innovative programming. Founded in 1945, it has since become a cultural icon in the Southeast, attracting world-class musicians and conductors alike.

The ASO was originally formed as a community orchestra by a group of local music enthusiasts. The orchestra was a volunteer ensemble until the mid-1960s when it transitioned to a professional orchestra with paid musicians. Its first conductor was Henry Sopkin, who guided the orchestra from its inception until 1966.

Since then, the ASO has been led by a series of renowned conductors, including Robert Shaw, who served as music director from 1967 to 1988. Under Shaw's leadership, the ASO became a fixture on the national and international music scene, performing at Carnegie Hall and on tours throughout Europe, Asia, and South America.

In 1988, Yoel Levi took over as music director, leading the ASO to new heights over his 15-year tenure. During this time, the orchestra won numerous awards and accolades, including several Grammy Awards for its recordings. Levi's successor, Robert Spano, has continued to build on the ASO's legacy, expanding the orchestra's repertoire to include contemporary music and commissioning new works from emerging composers.

The ASO's home is the Atlanta Symphony Hall at the Woodruff Arts Center, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 1968 and was renovated in 2001. The hall features excellent acoustics and a seating capacity of 1,762, making it a popular venue for live concerts and events.

In addition to its regular season of classical music concerts, the ASO also offers a wide variety of performances throughout the year, ranging from pops and jazz concerts to film screenings with live orchestral accompaniment. The orchestra is also committed to music education and outreach, with a number of programs aimed at engaging young audiences and promoting musical literacy in the community.

For those interested in attending live concerts and events at the ASO, tickets are available through a variety of channels, including the orchestra's website, the Woodruff Arts Center box office, and various ticketing platforms. Prices vary depending on the performance and seating section, but typically range from around $50 to $150.

Overall, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra is a true cultural gem, offering world-class musical performances and programming that appeal to a broad range of audiences. Whether you're a classical music aficionado or simply looking for a memorable night out, the ASO is definitely worth checking out.

More About Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

One of the most iconic songs that ASO has played over the years is “Pictures at an Exhibition” by Modest Mussorgsky. Originally composed for the piano, this masterpiece was later arranged for orchestra by Maurice Ravel. The ASO's version of “Pictures at an Exhibition” is a stunningly beautiful symphonic masterpiece that transports listeners on a musical journey through various paintings, landscapes, and moments in time. The song's dramatic, epic soundscapes combined with the ASO's meticulous orchestration make for a truly unforgettable experience.

Another classic that the ASO often plays at its live performances is Beethoven's “Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Op. 125.” This symphony is widely regarded as one of the finest works of music ever composed and is often referred to as the “Choral” Symphony. It features a large chorus and four soloists and is widely noted for its stirring final movement, which includes the famous "Ode to Joy". When the ASO performs this masterpiece, it brings out the sheer joy and exaltation that Beethoven intended, creating an emotional experience that leaves listeners in awe.

The ASO also frequently performs "The Four Seasons" by Antonio Vivaldi, a set of four violin concertos that depict the different seasons of the year. The piece is known for its beautiful melodies and skillful composition, and the ASO's interpretation of this work is nothing short of breathtaking. The orchestra's instrumentation and the solo performances by the violinists bring out the beauty of this masterpiece in a way that will stay with you long after the concert ends.

Fans of contemporary music are also in for a treat when attending ASO's live performances, as the orchestra has played some of the most memorable modern songs of the last few decades. One such song is John Williams’ theme from the movie “Jurassic Park.” The ASO's version of the song is a cinematic masterpiece that captures the wonder and awe of the movie in a way that only a live symphony performance could.

Another modern classic that the ASO has played in its live events is “The Imperial March” from the “Star Wars” franchise. This iconic theme has become synonymous with Darth Vader and evil, and the ASO brings out the song's ominous and foreboding tone in a way that is both thrilling and unforgettable.

In conclusion, whether you're a fan of classical music or contemporary hits, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's live performances offer something for everyone. From timeless masterpieces like "Symphony No. 9" and "Pictures at an Exhibition" to modern classics like "Jurassic Park" and "The Imperial March," the ASO's repertoire of music is a testament to its incredible musicianship and dedication to providing the perfect concert experience. If you haven't had the chance to attend one of their live events, now is the perfect time to get tickets and experience the magic of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra first-hand.