Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Vocal

 

The Columbia Concert Orchestra is a classical music ensemble that has been entertaining audiences for over 40 years. Founded in 1979 by conductor and music director, Richard Owen, the orchestra has become a staple of the Columbia, South Carolina music scene. Richard Owen, a graduate of the Juilliard School of Music, had a vision to create a professional orchestra that would provide high-quality classical music performances to the community. He assembled a group of talented musicians from the Columbia area and began rehearsing for their first concert. The orchestra's first performance was held in November 1979 at the Koger Center for the Arts in Columbia. The concert was a success, and the Columbia Concert Orchestra was born. Over the years, the orchestra has grown in size and reputation. Today, it is made up of over 50 professional musicians, many of whom are members of the South Carolina Philharmonic and other regional orchestras. The Columbia Concert Orchestra has performed a wide range of classical music, from Baroque to contemporary. They have collaborated with renowned soloists and conductors, including pianist Awadagin Pratt and conductor Donald Portnoy. One of the highlights of the orchestra's history was their performance at the 1984 World's Fair in New Orleans. They were one of only a few orchestras selected to perform at the fair, and their performance was broadcast on national television. The orchestra has also been recognized for their contributions to the community. In 2009, they received the Elizabeth O'Neill Verner Governor's Award for the Arts, the highest honor given by the state of South Carolina in the arts. In addition to their regular concert series, the Columbia Concert Orchestra has also performed at special events and venues, including the South Carolina State House and the Columbia Museum of Art. The orchestra's current music director is Maestro Peter Jaffe, who has been with the orchestra since 2015. Under his leadership, the orchestra has continued to grow and thrive. In recent years, the Columbia Concert Orchestra has expanded their outreach efforts, offering educational programs for students and collaborating with local schools and community organizations. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the orchestra has continued to perform and connect with audiences through virtual concerts and live-streamed performances. The Columbia Concert Orchestra remains a beloved institution in the Columbia community, providing world-class classical music performances and enriching the cultural landscape of the region.

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