Our Vision
We envision a community where live, world-class symphonic music connects people from all walks of life, inspires creativity and curiosity, while shaping a culturally vibrant Missoula for generations to come!
Our Mission
The Missoula Symphony Association is dedicated to bringing the transformative experience of symphonic and choral music to the soul of Missoula through innovative programming, captivating performances, and educational outreach.
History
Founded in 1954 as the Missoula Civic Symphony Association, the Missoula Symphony Orchestra & Chorale began under the leadership of founding conductor Eugene Andrie. Bringing together community musicians, University of Montana faculty, and student performers, the organization presented its first concert on April 3, 1955, establishing a tradition of live symphonic music that continues today.
In 1956, the Symphony was accepted into the American Symphony Orchestra League, now known as the League of American Orchestras, marking an important milestone in the organization’s artistic development. The Missoula Symphony Chorale was later established in 1962 under founding conductor George Lewis, further expanding the organization’s artistic reach and collaborative performance opportunities.
Today, now celebrating more than 70 seasons, the Symphony continues its longstanding commitment to artistic excellence through ambitious programming, distinguished guest artists, community collaborations, and educational initiatives that serve audiences and students throughout Western Montana. What began as a community-driven ensemble has evolved into one of the region’s leading performing arts organizations, while remaining rooted in the musicians, chorale members, and artistic vision that have defined it for generations.
MISSOULA SYMPHONY CHORALE HISTORY
The Missoula Symphony Chorale became part of the Missoula Symphony Orchestra & Chorale in 1962 and has remained an essential part of the organization’s artistic identity ever since.
Over more than six decades, the Chorale has been led by only four conductors: founding conductor George Lewis, Joseph Mussulman, Donald Carey, and current conductor Dean Peterson. Throughout history, the Chorale has built a reputation for artistic excellence through performances of major choral masterworks, collaborations with distinguished guest artists and conductors, and memorable cultural exchanges, including concert tours throughout Europe.
The Chorale has also shared the stage with legendary conductor Robert Shaw and performed at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall. Under Dean Peterson’s leadership, the ensemble has continued to expand its artistic impact through masterworks performances, contemporary choral programming, and beloved community traditions such as the annual Holiday Pops! concert.
Today, the Chorale remains committed to enriching Western Montana through powerful choral-orchestral performances and a continued dedication to musical excellence.