History

The Conway Symphony Orchestra was founded by community music supporters in the early 80’s, with our debut concert in 1984. Originally a joint project of the music departments at Hendrix College and University of Central Arkansas, the CSO roster is composed of approximately 2/3 pre-professional musicians with the remainder professional musicians and some community members. With an initial schedule of two classical concerts a year, an informal Concert in the Park was added a few years later, followed by a concert for schoolchildren in 1995. In 1999, we expanded our community concert offerings with a holiday concert and a children’s concert to introduce youth to live symphonic music. With the addition of a mainstage Pops concert in 2007-2008, we are now presenting a six-concert season. As the symphony has grown, our relationship with UCA has become more formalized with our Conductor/Music Director holding a faculty position, and their scholarship students serving as musicians.