50 years, 50 stories: Story #24 Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra

Bringing Classical Music to Life in Washtenaw County

Founded in 1928, the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra has always been an integral part of the City’s cultural life. Since becoming a professional orchestra in 1986, the A2SO has expanded its mission beyond its concert performances-developing outreach programs that bring classical music to every segment of our community. 

Music lovers of all ages enjoy free, open dress rehearsals and pre-concert lectures by A2SO Conductor Arie Lipsky. An Instrument Petting Zoo gives young children the chance to try out instruments at day care centers and schools. For K-12 students, the Orchestra brings its musical ensembles directly into area classrooms, and Side-by-Side Concerts enable student musicians from area schools to perform on stage with the A2SO. 

Over time, the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation and its donors have contributed more than $95,000 to support the Orchestra. A $20,000 grant in 2009 helped A2SO maintain its popular Family Concert Series. More recently, the AAACF Youth Council awarded a grant to support KinderConcert: Music in Motion, free 30-minute concerts for children 2 to 6 years old.

One of the many ways the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation supports all that is good in our community.

Read more "good" stories at: aaacf.org/stories