Mission
Enhancing Durham’s rich cultural heritage, the Durham Symphony performs high quality orchestral concerts that foster accessibility and encourage the development of music appreciation and education. The Durham Symphony’s programming reflects a commitment to familiar, American, and popular music.
Vision
The Durham Symphony inspires, educates, and celebrates the relevance and joy of symphonic music.
Our History
The Durham Symphony began in 1976 as an all-volunteer community orchestra, offering free concerts. The symphony was incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1977.
Today, the Durham Symphony has evolved into an auditioned, semi-professional orchestra. Throughout its history, the Durham Symphony’s mission has been to foster the appreciation of music through the production of high-quality music for and by the residents of Durham and surrounding communities.
We honor our Founding Conductor, Vincent Simonetti and Conductor Emeritus, Alan Neilson.