The historic Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO) was initiated in 1934 as a statewide effort dedicated to performing in towns throughout Vermont, no matter how remote.  Now the oldest state-funded orchestra in the country, the ensemble still continues its focus on regional outreach.

The VSO’s well-rounded assemblage of programs includes a “Sunday Matinee Series” in Rutland and the “Summer Festival Tour” with stops at towns such as Manchester, Shelburne, and Randolph, in addition to its “Holiday Pops” and “Masterworks Series.”   The group’s commitment to contemporary music is evidenced in part by the work of David Ludwig, its New Music Advisor, who hosts the television program Vermont Music Now.

The organization’s educational program SymphonyKids currently reaches students in about 2000 schools, in more than 150 towns.

Vermont Symphony Orchestra Information

• Other Venues: The Paramount Theatre (30 Center Street, Rutland) and various other venues throughout Vermont when touring
• Public Transportation: Excellent for both. For the Flynn Center (a 5-minute walk from several CCTA buses in the Downtown area). For the Paramount Theatre (a short walk from the Rutland Amtrak station at Merchants Row/Center Street and a 3-minute walk from all MVRTD buses and the ACTR Rutland Connector at the Transit Center on West Street/Merchants Row)
• Handicapped Accessibility: Good for all venues
• Performances/Programs: 45 annual performances statewide with 5 Masterworks concerts at the Flynn Center; 3 Sunday Matinee concerts at the Paramount Theatre in Rutland; and several concerts during the tour throughout the state of Vermont
• Ticket Prices: Vary based on venue and seating choice, usually in the $30 range. Children (under 18) receive discounted tickets. Tickets bought in advance can be significantly less expensive
• Subscriptions: 5 Masterworks subscription is $68–$261 depending on seat selection (Student $40); 3 Matinee subscription is $51–$77 depending on seat selection (Student $24). Subscriber benefits include priority seating and renewal privileges; a Symphony Subscriber Savings Card, which gives you a two-for-one discount on tickets purchased for concerts presented by 15 orchestras throughout New England; ticket insurance; and a ticket donation option, which allows you to donate the tickets you cannot use to the VSO for resale.