Lexington Symphony About Us

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The Lexington Symphony is a group of dedicated musicians who share a passion for their music and for exacting standards of performance. In its 13th season, the orchestra maintains a unique blend of grass-roots spirit and professionalism, devoted to sharing classical music with all. With an emphasis on accessibility, the group offers great programming, superb performances, easy parking and affordable tickets, with outreach programs that introduce kids of all ages to classical music.

Whole orchestra

Founded as the Lexington Sinfonietta in 1995 by conductor Hisao Watanabe and a group of dedicated musicians and supporters, the Lexington Symphony now celebrates its fourteenth anniversary season. Music Director Jonathan McPhee is one of the leading musical figures in New England. As Music Director for the Boston Ballet, he has received critical acclaim for his work with the Company and Orchestra, which is the second largest musical organization in Boston. Trained in England and at The Juilliard School, Maestro McPhee is equally at home as a symphonic, ballet, and opera conductor.

The Lexington Symphony performs a subscription series of Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon concerts each year in Lexington, including an April event linked to the town's historic heritage and Patriots' Day celebration. Audience members relish the intimate feel of Lexington Symphony concerts, where players are accessible and local audiences can enjoy quality classical music without the hassles of traveling into Boston. As one audience member put it, "...wonderful because I hear great music beautifully performed, I can easily park, and I'm home in 5 minutes."

Some violinists

Each Saturday night concert is preceded by a talk presented by conductor Jonathan McPhee. These talks combine musical examples with biographical information to enhance the listening experience and are accessible to all. They are an opportunity to look behind the pieces to be performed and retrace the composers' thoughts.

The Lexington Symphony furthers its commitment to community by featuring gifted artists from the local area in its performances, such as Lexington residents and teachers Magdalena Richter, violinist, Sarah Takagi, pianist, Epp Sonin, soprano, Paul Carlson, pianist, and Thomas Stumpf, pianist, as well as talented high school students, including participants in Project STEP.

Bass scroll

The Lexington Symphony makes further links to the community through innovative outreach programs for area children and with ensembles from the orchestra called the Lexington Symphony Chamber Players, which perform at local venues throughout the year and are also available to play at private functions.

The Lexington Symphony Chamber Players are available to play at private functions. For further information and a price list, please contact us.

Photos courtesy of Pierre Chiha.
Mass Cultural Council