The Louisiana State University Symphony Orchestra (LSUSO) is a classical music ensemble based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The orchestra was founded in 1930 by Dr. George W. Cox, who served as its conductor until 1959. Since then, the orchestra has been led by a number of distinguished conductors, including Kenneth Schermerhorn, Carlos Miguel Prieto, and Timothy Muffitt. The LSUSO is composed of approximately 90 undergraduate and graduate students from Louisiana State University's School of Music. The orchestra performs a wide range of repertoire, from Baroque to contemporary music, and collaborates with guest artists and conductors from around the world. Over the years, the LSUSO has earned a reputation for excellence, both locally and nationally. The orchestra has performed at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York City and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. It has also been invited to perform at numerous music festivals, including the National Orchestral Institute, the Sewanee Summer Music Festival, and the Round Top Music Festival. One of the LSUSO's most notable performances took place in 2015, when the orchestra performed Gustav Mahler's Symphony No. 2, also known as the "Resurrection Symphony." The performance featured the LSU A Cappella Choir and guest soloists, and was conducted by Timothy Muffitt. The concert was met with critical acclaim, with one reviewer describing it as "a stunning performance that left the audience breathless." In addition to its performances, the LSUSO has also received numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 2017, the orchestra was named a finalist for the American Prize in Orchestral Performance, an award that recognizes excellence in the field of classical music. The LSUSO has also been recognized by the Louisiana State Arts Council and the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra for its contributions to the local arts community. The LSUSO's current conductor is Carlos Miguel Prieto, who has been with the orchestra since 2000. Prieto is also the music director of the Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional de México and the Orquesta Sinfónica de Minería, and has conducted orchestras around the world. Under Prieto's leadership, the LSUSO has continued to thrive, attracting talented musicians and audiences alike. In conclusion, the Louisiana State University Symphony Orchestra is a world-class ensemble that has made significant contributions to the field of classical music. With its talented musicians, distinguished conductors, and impressive repertoire, the LSUSO has earned a reputation as one of the finest orchestras in the United States. Its performances have inspired and delighted audiences around the world, and its legacy will continue to be felt for generations to come.

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