Current Music Director Clay Couturiaux attributes this to the support of the community and the musicians.
“The orchestra is an important part of the community’s fabric,” he said. “Orchestras attract all different kinds of types of people in the community.”
The backstory
The Richardson Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1961 by the organization's first music director, Chris Xeros, who was the conductor for just over 30 years, Couturiaux said.
Anshel Brusilow took over as music director and conductor in 1992 and stayed until 2012, when Couturiaux took the position.
As music director, Couturiaux works with Executive Director and President Laurie Garvie to set the orchestra’s schedule throughout the season. He is also responsible for programming the concerts. To do so, he said he has to keep in mind the musical taste of the audience and what standards they will enjoy while also finding something new that will inspire them.
“It’s also about what is going to make the orchestra better,” Couturiaux said. “What challenges them and inspires them because they have their own tastes in what they like to play. You want to show off what they do well.”
The impact
The conductor said orchestras improve the quality of life for those who attend the concerts, and, because the orchestra plays music from all over the world, it helps to promote understanding of other cultures.
“No matter what is going on in the world, the feelings and emotions in the music, people relate to it,” Couturiaux said. "Locally, within the city of Richardson and the outside area, there is a sense of pride. It fosters pride in the community that they have an orchestra, a sense of togetherness.”
Get involved
The Richardson Symphony Orchestra has several ways for the community to get involved, Garvie said, adding that attending concerts is the easiest way. In addition, patrons can join the Richardson Symphony League, a philanthropic program under the orchestra's umbrella. The league also allows middle and high school students to get involved, serving as ushers at concerts.
“It’s a fun way for students to learn what nonprofits look like,” Garvie said. “It gives them a snapshot view of how to get involved in the community.”
The league also provides philanthropic services for the community, Garvie said.
What else?
Couturiaux said the best way to get involved is for attendees to remember their love of music and remain open to experiencing new music.
“If you come to a concert and enjoy it, you can help by inviting a friend the next time you come,” Couturiaux said.
- 399 W. Campbell Road, Ste. 200A, Richardson
- www.richardsonsymphony.org
