The Oakville Symphony Orchestra celebrated its 40th Anniversary four years ago and it proved to be a season worthy of the occasion. Founded in 1967 by local musician and educator Kenneth Hollier, with a mission statement to “make music for the pleasure of its members and the enjoyment of its audience”, the O.S.O. has certainly achieved this goal.
The Oakville Beaver reported in 1968 that a small group comprised of three flutes, an oboe, two horns, a trombone, and a variety of strings met for the first rehearsal in the music room at Blakelock High School. Among them were current O.S.O. members Jean Grieve,(cello) Janet Jones(violin), Paul Lancaster (oboe) and Sandy Bainbridge (french horn). They began their project with dedication, ambition, and optimism.
Who knows, but within a few short years we might have established our own symphony orchestra, our own concerts with local talent, and maybe, just maybe, our own auditorium.”
Ray Stefenze, Beaver March 1968
Although the first few years were reportedly challenging, the newly formed orchestra thrived under the leadership of Hollier. Their first concert was held at the YMCA on June 24, 1968, and consisted of a well-received selection of popular classics. From here the orchestra rapidly grew, presenting collaborations with the Clarkson Opera Society, and the White Oaks Choral Society. Soon mini-concerts of chamber groups comprised of orchestra members were performing in various venues around the area. Concerts moved to churches and high school auditoriums as the dream of a real theatre was still unfulfilled.
The year 1973 saw the untimely death of Ken Hollier. New conductor, David Gray succeeded Hollier performing more challenging repertoire, continuing a series of children’s concerts, and initiating a pops concert in memory of its founder. The well-loved local composer and educator, Anthony (Tony) Royse rose from the bassoon section to conduct the orchestra from 1976-1983. In 1977 the Oakville Center for the Performing Arts was finally completed, providing a new venue for the Oakville Symphony. These years saw more collaboration with other arts organizations, including the Oakville School of Ballet for which Tony wrote three original ballets performed with the Oakville Symphony. Musicians from Tony’s regime remember fondly his wit, his talent, and his enthusiasm.
Music teacher Syd Reid stepped up to the podium after Royse’s departure, followed by David Miller who conducted from 1987 until 1996. Miller began the practice of hiring professional section leaders to assist the orchestra in achieving a higher level of skill and musicality. A board of directors was officially formed. Performing at the Oakville Waterfront Festival enabled the orchestra to introduce symphonic music to hundreds of Oakville residents. The ensuing years saw enormous support grow from the community of Oakville for its orchestra.