Mr. George M. Irwin founded the “Quincy Little Symphony” in 1947. The Orchestra was expanded in 1952 and re-named the Quincy Symphony Orchestra, presenting five concerts annually. Music Director Bruce Briney is the seventh conductor, and has led the QSO since 2007.
Dr. Briney strives to craft a season of diverse musical styles and performers. His commitment to the creation of new music by collaborating with and supporting living composers has led the QSOA to commission twenty new works since 2007. Many composers have been introduced to our community through pre-concert lectures. The QSO seeks collaborative programs with area arts and non-arts organizations, and has received formal recognition for exceptional Community Relations from the Illinois Council of Orchestras. The award-winning QSO received Quincy’s George Irwin Arts Award for “2018 Non-profit Arts Organization of the Year” and was named “2020 Illinois Community Orchestra of the Year” by the Illinois Council of Orchestras – statewide recognition for excellence in programming & repertoire, community involvement, youth opportunities, audience growth, fiscal responsibility & community support.
Approximately 75 musicians from all walks of life from Quincy and the surrounding region rehearse with the QSO weekly from September to April. Most are volunteers, and many have played in the symphony for 25 years or more. Students and music faculty from several area colleges and high schools participate regularly. The QSO prepares five concerts each season, including a joint performance with the Quincy Symphony Chorus and a special day of concerts for elementary school students in March.
Auditions are held once a year in late August for open positions and for the list of substitute musicians. String players who are new to the community may audition throughout the year by special arrangement. Please contact the Symphony Office for audition information: 217-222-2856.
