One of the premier regional orchestras in the country, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra has been a leader in the Virginia arts scene since 1920, when it was formed as the Norfolk Symphony. Financial troubles in the 1970s saw the Norfolk ensemble join with the Peninsula Symphony Orchestra and the Virginia Beach Pops Symphony to form the present day orchestra. Under the direction of acclaimed conductor JoAnn Falletta for over two decades, the VSO puts on several series during its season and performs at several venues, including Chrysler Hall and the Ferguson Center for the Arts. The ensemble also performs occasional concerts with the Richmond Ballet and the Virginia Opera.