The Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra is now presenting it's 94th season of concerts - an amazing achievement for any region boasting a professional orchestra.
From it's beginnings as a 30-piece ensemble of dedicated recreational players, the Phil has grown into a fully professional symphony orchestra of 75 musicians. Today, under the guidance of Music Director and Conductor Steven Karidoyanes the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra has taken it's place as a major cultural force in southeastern New England, earning support from patrons and concert-goers who live throughout Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
Except for two years during World War II, the orchestra has been in continuous operation since 1913. The lineage of conductors leading the Plymouth Philharmonic over the years is an august group of individuals. G. Herbert Clarke, a Kingston violin teacher, established the orchestra in 1913, serving as both conductor and manager until his death in 1932. The orchestra was then reorganized under Edgar Beauregard who, with the exception of the two years during World War II, continued as conductor until 1950. The baton was then passed to Beltrando Brini (1950-58), Josef Cobert (1959-61), Jerome Cohen (1962-66), John Pacheco (1967-72), and several guest conductors.
In 1973 the orchestra became a charted, non-profit corporation and, with Boston Symphony Orchestra violinist Victor Yampolsky as conductor, began to move from amateur to professional status. Conductor Rudolf Schelegel (1976-93) then led the orchestra through a period of significant growth, resulting in a dramatic rise in public support and appreciation.
Since his appointment as Music Director in 1994, Steven Karidoyanes continues to raise the orchestra to new levels of excellence year after year. Under his guidance, the Phil enjoys an unsurpassed reputation for artistic excellence, innovative programs and inspired community collaborations.
Today, the Phil plays to critical acclaim, has given the world premieres, performs with world -renowned soloists, and has performed in venues from Boston to Cape Cod.