Holyoke Civic Symphony was formed in 1967, originally as a part of Holyoke Community College. As a non-profit organization committed to fulfilling its mission without financial barriers, admission is not charged for most performances.

In keeping with its mission, HCS provides a variety of opportunities for people in the community to perform and listen to symphonic works of music. The orchestra extends its mission of financial accessibility by performing concerts only in accessible venues. HCS is composed primarily of non-professional musicians who come together once a week to rehearse. Along with the classics, local professional musicians perform as guest soloists and as contributors of original compositions for the orchestra to perform. In addition, the orchestra conducts a biennial competition among high school students from towns and cities in western Massachusetts with the winner receiving a monetary gift and an invitation to perform as a guest soloist with the orchestra.

The orchestra could not exist without the generous support of many local businesses and individuals, as well as Holyoke Community College, which provides rehearsal and concert space, instrument loans, and other essential services.

The orchestra is partially funded by generous grants from the Holyoke Cultural Council, the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, and other arts foundations, and from private and business contributions. You may wish to make a tax-deductible donation to the orchestra. Those interested in program ads or concert sponsorship may contact Emily Lewis at (413) 256-1760. Please see our concert sponsors.

The Holyoke Civic Symphony is made up of approximately 60 musicians. Anyone interested in joining the orchestra should contact the music director. Rehearsals are on Monday evenings from 7:00 to 9:30 at Holyoke Community College.

For more information, please contact: David Kidwell, Music Director