Red Deer Symphony Orchestra Association

The Red Deer Symphony Orchestra Association (RDSO) is a Canadian nonprofit organization and registered charity based in Red Deer, Alberta. Established in 1987, the association manages and produces performances for the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra, a regional professional orchestra that serves Central Alberta. The organization is committed to engaging, educating, and inspiring the community through orchestral music and related educational programs.

History

The Red Deer Symphony Orchestra was founded with financial assistance from the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, initially as a community ensemble. Over time, it developed into a fully professional orchestra, presenting a varied concert season that has included six main series concerts annually, alongside chamber music series and special programs for children. The chamber music series was discontinued in 2012 due to financial sustainability challenges.

Since 1990, the orchestra's Music Director has been Canadian conductor Claude Lapalme. In 2000, the orchestra notably replaced the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra as the Alberta Ballet Company's orchestra when the latter was touring Europe. The RDSO has also participated in broadcasts for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and frequently collaborates with Edmonton’s Pro Coro Canada.

In 2017, the RDSO participated in the Canada 150 celebrations, performing alongside Steven Page. For this event, the orchestra, together with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, commissioned a new composition by Canadian composer Cheryl Cooney entitled Are we not drawn onward, we few, drawn onward to new era?. The organization also performed as a headline act at the 2019 Canada Winter Games held in Red Deer.

Mission and Activities

The Red Deer Symphony Orchestra Association focuses on providing professional performing arts experiences and music education throughout Central Alberta. One of its signature educational initiatives, Choir Kids, invites elementary school choirs to perform with orchestra members, fostering young musicianship and community engagement.

The association receives funding through grants, including support from the Red Deer Community Cultural Development Fund, as well as local patrons, businesses, and volunteers. Maintaining a commitment to transparency, the organization makes key documents such as annual reports and strategic plans available to the public.

Organizational Structure

The Red Deer Symphony Orchestra Association operates as a nonprofit entity registered under the Business Registration Number 119112506RR0001. It supports the orchestra’s operations and ensures the continuation of the orchestra’s cultural and educational programming in the region.

Categories:

• Orchestras in Alberta
• Musical groups established in 1987
• Red Deer, Alberta
• 1987 establishments in Alberta