The Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO) is a Canadian classical music ensemble based in Windsor, Ontario. Founded in 1947, the WSO has become one of the most respected and beloved orchestras in Canada, known for its high-quality performances and commitment to community engagement. The WSO was founded by a group of local musicians who wanted to create a professional orchestra in Windsor. The first concert was held on November 16, 1947, and featured a program of classical music by composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, and Brahms. The orchestra quickly gained a reputation for excellence, and over the years has attracted some of the finest musicians in Canada and around the world. One of the key figures in the early years of the WSO was conductor and music director Laszlo Gati. Gati, who was born in Hungary and trained at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest, joined the WSO in 1958 and served as its music director for 25 years. Under his leadership, the orchestra grew in size and stature, and became known for its innovative programming and commitment to contemporary music. In addition to Gati, the WSO has been led by a number of other distinguished conductors over the years, including John Barnum, Susan Haig, and Robert Franz. Today, the orchestra is led by music director and conductor Robert Franz, who has been with the WSO since 2013. The WSO is made up of approximately 45 full-time and part-time musicians, many of whom are also members of other orchestras and ensembles in Canada and the United States. The orchestra performs a wide range of classical music, from the Baroque era to the present day, and is known for its dynamic and engaging performances. Over the years, the WSO has performed with a number of renowned soloists, including pianist Anton Kuerti, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and violinist Joshua Bell. The orchestra has also collaborated with a number of other arts organizations in Windsor and beyond, including the Windsor Symphony Youth Orchestra, the Windsor Symphony Chorus, and the Canadian Ballet Youth Ensemble. One of the highlights of the WSO's history was its performance at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The orchestra was invited to perform at the opening ceremonies, and played a program of Canadian and American music to an audience of millions around the world. In addition to its performances, the WSO is also committed to community engagement and education. The orchestra offers a number of educational programs for students of all ages, including the Windsor Symphony Youth Orchestra, which provides young musicians with the opportunity to perform with a professional orchestra. The WSO also offers a number of outreach programs, including concerts in schools and community centers, and collaborations with local arts organizations. Over the years, the WSO has received numerous awards and accolades for its performances and community engagement. In 2017, the orchestra was awarded the Lieutenant Governor's Award for the Arts, which recognizes outstanding achievement in the arts in Ontario. The WSO has also been recognized by the Canadian Arts Presenting Association, the Ontario Arts Council, and the Canada Council for the Arts. In conclusion, the Windsor Symphony Orchestra is a Canadian classical music ensemble with a rich history and a commitment to excellence in performance and community engagement.

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