Founded in 1916, as part of the municipal government, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra became a private institution in 1942. But it still maintains a close relationship with the Baltimore community and government.

The BSO is led by Maestra Marin Alsop, who became the Orchestra’s 12th  music director in 2007 and is the first woman to head a major American orchestra.

In addition to its regular series concerts, the BSO offers many great opportunities for children: Family-Musical Adventures and Family-Classically Kids concerts for children ages 3–6 and 7–12 respectively, along with a BSO Kids section of their website, which offers a free educational outlet for children to learn about classical music. College Nights and $10 student tickets provide additional incentive for students to come to the BSO and enjoy an after party with free food, prizes, and drink specials. The young-professionals membership group, Forte, gives patron ages 21–40 exclusive benefits, including reduced-priced seating, post-concert networking events, and opportunities to meet guest artists and the musicians of the BSO.

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Information

• Other Venues: Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda
• Public Transportation: Very good (the Meyerhoff is easily accessible by light rail and bus and is a short cab ride from Penn Station; the Strathmore is accessible by DC Metro and bus lines)
• Performances/Programs: Varies; check BSO website for schedule
• Ticket Prices: Prices vary per program. Special admission prices are offered for students and seniors; student Rush tickets can be purchased at either the Meyerhoff or the Strathmore ticket office for just $10. For select concerts, $10 student Rush tickets may be purchased online or in person. Group discounts are offered for parties of 15 or more. $20 unreserved seating is also offered; for just $20, you get the best available seat on the day of the concert. $25 tickets at Strathmore are regularly updated on the BSO website; check frequently to find these discounted tickets available for upcoming events
• Subscriptions: Multiple subscription options are offered at the Meyerhoff, including a Choose Your Own series, Off the Cuff series, Symphony with a Twist series, as well as an offer of student subscriptions of five concerts for $40. Free ticket exchanges are given with subscription via the Internet. There’s a $3 fee for phone exchanges and online ticket exchanges are only available to subscribers. Convenient pre-paid parking is also an option at certain subscriber rates
• Activities for young Adults and Children: Forte is an opportunity for young professionals, ages 21–40, to enjoy a world-class orchestra and meet fellow music-lovers. Members take advantage of exclusive benefits, including $40 tickets in orchestra-level seats, post-concert networking events, and unique opportunities to meet BSO musicians and guest artists. Family-Musical Adventures (for children ages 3–6) and Family-Classically Kids (for children ages 7–12 and their families) are family-friendly programs offered by the BSO for young music aficionados
• Membership: Membership begins at $75. Benefits include two complimentary tickets to the annual donor-appreciation concert and the opportunity to purchase tickets prior to public sale, as well as access to exclusive events, parties, trips, and tours.