The Oldest Orchestra in the West
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Portland is home to so many wonderful musical groups, the oldest of which is the Oregon Symphony. Founded in 1896, the Oregon Symphony was the first orchestra in the West. Throughout the last 120 years, the Oregon Symphony has continued to grow, expand its range of performances, and reach more listeners. It wasnât until 1984 that the symphony moved to its current home, the Arlene Schnitzer concert hall, allowing it to begin producing recordings and host even more community events, as well as granting the musicians the opportunity to rehearse on the stage where they perform.
Today, the Oregon Symphony is one of only seven major orchestras in the US that were established in the 1800s. This year, their schedule boasts a diverse range of concerts, including the complete score of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, The Music of Prince, Mozart's Requiem, and John Williams' soundtrack to E. T. the Extra Terrestrial.
The Oregon Symphony also offers concerts for kids, as well as discount tickets for students and seniors. If you see me at one of their shows this season, make sure to say hello!
Source: http://www.orsymphony.org/index.aspx