History

An amazing achievement for any region boasting a symphony orchestra, the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra presents its 94th season of concerts.

Except for two years during World War II, the orchestra has operated continuously since 1913. From its beginnings as a 30-piece ensemble of dedicated recreational players, it has evolved into a fully professional symphony orchestra of 75 musicians. Under the guidance of Music Director and Conductor Steven Karidoyanes, the orchestra has taken its place as a major cultural force in southeastern New England, earning support from patrons and concert-goers in more than 180 communities in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island.

G. Herbert Clarke, a Kingston violin teacher, founded the Orchestra in 1913 to give his students an opportunity to play together in ensemble. Clarke organized 30 musicians, began rehearsals, and conducted the first performance of the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra on December 28, 1913. Following his death in 1932, the Orchestra was reorganized under Edgar Beauregard and, with the exception of a few years during World War II, continued under his direction until 1950. The baton was passed from Beltrando Brini (1950-58), to Josef Cobert (1959-61), Jerome Cohen (1962-66), and John Pacheco (1967-72), as well as guest conductors.

The Phil became a chartered, non-profit corporation in 1973 and, with Victor Yampolsky of the Boston Symphony as conductor, began to move from amateur to semi-professional status. Rudolph Schlegel led the orchestra through a period of unmatched growth, dramatically raising the level of artistic quality and escalating public support.

Steven Karidoyanes was named Music Director and Conductor in 1994. His talents, energy and dedication have brought the orchestra to even greater artistic heights as he guides the orchestra toward its vision . . . excellent music, close to home.

Currently . . .

The Plymouth Philharmonic is a professional symphony orchestra that annually performs classical, pops, and family concerts, and in-school and outreach programs. The orchestra also presents special events such as golf tournaments, swing band dances, and concerts by other artists. As the "Orchestra of America's Hometown," the Philharmonic performs in Plymouth's Memorial Hall, located in downtown Plymouth. Check our web site at http://www.plymouthphil.org for the next concert/event.

11 North Street
Plymouth, MA 02360
Telephone: 508-746-8008
Fax: 508-746-0115