About the Bemidji Symphony Orchestra

The Bemidji Symphony Orchestra is a thriving community/college orchestra servicing the region of North Central Minnesota.  Its mission is to bring classical music to new audiences, while at the same time providing performance experience for both novice and accomplished musicians.  The orchestra performs four subscription concerts each season, and youth concerts biannually.  In addition, in 2005, the ensemble added a summer pops concert by the lake, a Messiah Sing-A-Long, and in 2006 a Valentines Concert with the Bemidji Youth Symphony.

Established in 1938 by Milton Dieterich, under the auspices of Bemidji State University, the BSO separated from the University in 2000 to become an independent nonprofit arts organization. During the 2003-2004 season, the BSO held a national search for its first independent conductor, and hired Dr. Beverly Everett who became the orchestra's first resident conductor in 2005. 

Membership in the orchestra is by audition only, and currently includes both professional and amateur musicians from the region, university students, university faculty, and highly qualified high school students. The orchestra collaborates with talented guest artists who further enrich the community through special masterclasses and chamber recitals.

VOLUNTEER NETWORK: This season marks the creation of a new organization for the BSO.  The Volunteer Network, modeled after guilds and other support organizations around the country, exists to enhance the orchestra's presence in the community, and to help raise additional funds for the orchestra.  It is open to men and women of all ages who are interested in donating their time and energy to the BSO through social engagements and fundraising projects.  Sample projects include instrument petting zoo for kids and donor appreciation receptions.  For more information, please contact Beverly Everett at Podium314@aol.com. 

Audition information: To receive detailed information on auditions such as time, date, location and audition requirements, please contact  Podium314@aol.com