BIO:
The formation of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra (ASO) began with the first performance by a group of volunteer musicians in 1921. That group would evolve from a volunteer ensemble to the state's only full-time professional orchestra. Today, the ASO is continuing to make music and provide vital services to the residents of the state, serving nearly 100,000 individuals a year through concert series, youth programs, and educational and community engagement efforts to fulfill our mission to change lives through music.
During the 2012-2013 Season, the ASO continues its search to appoint a new Music Director by inviting eminent guest conductors from all over the world. After six highly successful seasons with the ASO, Maestro Justin Brown remains Music Director Laureate. As the state's premier performing arts organization, the ASO employs 54 salaried musicians who give more than 190 performances per year. The organization is supported through the ASO's Board of Directors, which consists of 60 civic and business leaders. The ASO has a volunteer pool of more than 400 individuals who are members of the Symphony Volunteer Council, Symphony 30, Greystone Symphony Society and the Youth Orchestra Parents Association. In addition, the ASO currently employs a full-time staff of 24.
We proudly work to produce creative, dynamic programming and to be recognized as an artistically innovative leader in the field – winning ASCAP Awards in 2010 and 2011 for Adventurous Programming and Dedication to New American Music and receiving an invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall in May 2012 as a part of the competitive Spring For Music Festival, which is underwritten by a $1 million grant from the Mellon Foundation.
The ASO partners with more than 50 other arts, community and educational organizations throughout Alabama to better serve our community. The ASO influences a large and diverse audience through more than 20 free community engagement performances, a statewide tour and education programs, which serve more than 30,000 children. In addition to enhancing the cultural offerings of the community, the ASO has an $18.2 million positive impact on the state's economy, according to a recent study by Americans for the Arts. The ASO raises the profile of our city and the entire region, making Birmingham a more attractive choice for new companies and residents. The ASO offers concert series for all ages and backgrounds. From our classical Regions Masterworks series to Education Concerts, to our star-studded Red Diamond Superpops series, the ASO is dedicated to delivering the highest artistic quality through meaningful and engaging programs.
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