Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Vocal

 

The General Motors Symphony Orchestra (GMSO) is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1930 by General Motors Corporation in Detroit, Michigan. The orchestra was established as part of the company's efforts to promote cultural activities in the community and to provide its employees with opportunities to participate in music-making. The GMSO was initially composed of amateur musicians who were employees of General Motors. However, the orchestra soon attracted professional musicians who were interested in performing with the ensemble. The orchestra's first conductor was Dr. Karl Krueger, who was also the conductor of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra at the time. Over the years, the GMSO has had several conductors, including Paul Freeman, who led the orchestra from 1963 to 1969, and Kenneth Kiesler, who served as the orchestra's music director from 1989 to 1994. The current music director of the GMSO is Kevin Fitzgerald, who has been with the orchestra since 2015. The GMSO has performed in many prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall in New York City and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The orchestra has also toured internationally, performing in countries such as Japan, Germany, and Canada. One of the highlights of the GMSO's history was its performance at the 1933 World's Fair in Chicago. The orchestra played for a crowd of over 100,000 people, and the performance was broadcast on national radio. The GMSO also performed at the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy in 1961. The GMSO has received many awards and honors over the years. In 1959, the orchestra was awarded the National Symphony Orchestra Award by the American Symphony Orchestra League. The award recognized the GMSO's contributions to the development of symphonic music in the United States. In 1980, the GMSO was awarded the Michigan Governor's Arts Award for its contributions to the cultural life of the state. The orchestra has also been recognized for its commitment to education and outreach. In 2017, the GMSO received the Michigan Youth Arts Touchstone Award for its work with young musicians in the community. The GMSO has a diverse repertoire that includes classical works, as well as popular music and film scores. The orchestra has collaborated with many well-known artists, including jazz pianist Dave Brubeck and singer-songwriter Judy Collins. In addition to its regular concert series, the GMSO also performs at community events and fundraisers. The orchestra has a strong commitment to education and outreach, and it offers programs for young musicians and music lovers in the community. The GMSO is a unique ensemble that has played an important role in the cultural life of Detroit and the United States. Its commitment to excellence in music-making and its dedication to education and outreach have made it a beloved institution in the community.

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