Symphony Tacoma

Programs: Symphony tacoma (the organization") is a washington nonprofit organization formerly known as tacoma symphony orchestra. The organization was founded in 1946 as a volunteer community ensemble, and has operated as a professional symphony orchestra since 1994. With 80 contracted musicians and an affiliated community chorus -symphony tacoma voices- the organization presents classical, pops, choral and youth education programs impacting nearly 20,000 citizens annually from throughout the south sound. Its funding is from ticket sales, special events and contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations. Governed by a volunteer board of directors, the organization has made significant inroads during recent seasons in diversifying revenue streams and creating greater long-term sustainability. The organization's mission is realized through three primary offerings: its main concert series, mini-maestros for children ages 2-8, and two educational programs, the award-winning simply symphonic education program for fifth grade students and "symphony2u", a free music coaching program for under-served high school orchestra students. Its new 2025 vision is "innovative. Vibrant. Engaging. Everywhere! And is summarized in the following story:it is 2025, and with every performance, symphony tacoma creates a freshness that makes it stand out among pacific northwest orchestras. Its innovative and vibrant programs delight an ever-expanding and diverse audience, often in non-traditional venues. Musicians play with skill, joy and pride. Performances-whether in the hall, on the green, or in the schools-are engaging and transformative for both ensemble and audience. Young and old, musical neophytes and veterans alike flock to experience orchestral music that is innovative and building community everywhere. This vision is supported by goals and objectives related to high artistic performance and professional standards, education and engagement with existing and future audiences, stewardship of resources, respect for all organizational stakeholders, and collaborative service to the community. In october 2016, at the start of its 70th anniversary concert season, the organization changed its name from tacoma symphony orchestra to symphony tacoma. The new name is intended to honor and maintain continuity with its 70-year history while conveying a fresh, dynamic new direction.