The Albany Symphony Orchestra was organized as the Albany Symphonette in 1965.
The first concert on May 18, 1965, was conducted by Mr. E.L. Ziegler in the gym of Porterfield United Methodist Church.
In 1968 the orchestra became a non-profit 501c(3) organization known as the Albany Symphony Association, Inc.
Dr. Edward Tarratus, Arts Division Chairman at Albany Junior College (now Darton College), assumed the podium as conductor in 1967 and he continued in this position until 1979.
Dr. Charles DeLaney, professor of music at Florida State University was appointed by the Albany Symphony Association as Music Director/Conductor.
In a bold step toward continuing development and deepening commitment, the Association voted in 1987 to employ a full-time Music Director/Conductor.
Dr. Claire Fox Hillard was engaged beginning with the 1988-89 season. Under Dr. Hillard's innovative and imaginative leadership, the orchestra has continued to enjoy steady growth and wide recognition of its artistic stature.
HISTORY
Three conductors have wielded the baton as conductor of the Albany Symphony Orchestra. They are shown here in the picture taken at the Thirtieth Anniversary concert as (left to right) Edward Tarratus, Charles DeLaney and
Claire Fox Hillard.
The mission of the Albany Symphony Association is “to enrich the quality of life in southwest Georgia by providing and promoting symphonic music through the organization, development, and support of a symphony orchestra and related educational, artistic, and cultural activities.”
Albany Symphony Association, Inc. P.O. Box 70065 Albany, GA 31708-0065
Phone: 229-317-6799 Fax: 229-317-6798 info@albanysymphony.org