The Oakville Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 40th Anniversary this year, and promises 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.”

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.

Today the Oakville Symphony Orchestra is thriving. Under the inspired leadership of Roberto de Clara, conductor for the last decade it continues to present exciting and challenging programs for its audiences each season. Highlights have included the first performance by the O.S.O of Shostakovich Symphony #5 in the centennial year of the composer, and the introduction of a choral series featuring performances of the Brahms and Mozart Requiems. The orchestra now has over seventy volunteer musicians, plus ten professionals providing leadership and inspiration. Performances by talented young soloists as well as established guest artists are featured in each concert. All this combined, with the work of its dedicated board of directors has resulted in an unprecedented, subscription sales of nearly 100 % for the past two years. The O.S.O. is truly unique among community orchestras in Canada.

The Symphony continues to offer the very successful Young Artist’s scholarship program and the Hollier award to stimulate the interest of young people in the community in symphonic music

A new initiative by the O.S.O. outreach committee has resulted in a series of mini-concerts introducing young children to instruments of the orchestra. This culminated in the fall of 2006 with the first “Young People’s Concert” featuring the full orchestra.

Thanks to the sponsorship of many local businesses, the Oakville Symphony has flourished. Outstanding financial support from the “Friends of the O.S.O.” program initiated by Janet Jones, enables the symphony to present outstanding guest artists, and a thrilling musical repertoire while keeping ticket prices affordable. The dream of a real community orchestra in Oakville envisioned forty years ago has become a reality. The Oakville Symphony Orchestra moves into its fortieth anniversary season having earned the reputation of one of the finest community orchestras in the country. This year the symphony will present one of its most ambitious seasons to date. Investor’s Group, our Marquee Sponsor, along with other valued sponsors and loyal patrons have ensured another sell-out subscription series. However, tickets are available for the symphony’s family Christmas Concerts held this year on Dec. 9 at 1:30 pm and 4:00 pm.. Join the O.S.O. and the award-winning Tempus Choir for a delightful afternoon of wonderful Christmas selections.

Much has changed, but the most important thing remains the same. Every Monday evening local musicians gather from all walks of life in an Oakville High School, for the pure joy of making music together. I know this for a fact because I am one of them.

Happy 40th Anniversary Oakville Symphony Orchestra. Here’s to your next 40 years!