Things To Do > History Of The Glens Falls Symphony Orchestra

Come see the Glens Falls Symphony Orchestra! The orchestra was started in 1973 and was led by Sheldon Binns and William Shank. It was first called the Adirondack Concert Orchestra and was later changed to Adirondack Philharmonic. At this time, the group would perform at Adirondack Community College, and students were allowed to receive academic credit if they participated.

Later in 1982, the group took visionary steps and was incorporated as a non-profit cultural organization and decided to take the name Glens Falls Symphony Orchestra. In 1984, Hugh Allen Wilson a legendary local keyboard, college professor and church musician began 14 year tenure as music director.

Currently, this professional orchestra has 54 performing members with its conductor Charles Peltz who was hired in 2000 after a nation-wide search.

The mission of the Glens Falls Symphony Orchestra is to provide a musical experience that is professional, educational, and entertaining through live performance and community outreach. 

Recent Symphony Orchestra Highlights:

• Gave the world premiere Made in America on October 2, 2005, a musical event of national significance
• Joined 64 other orchestras, with at least one in every state, in presenting this new orchestral work by Grawemeyer Prize winning composer Joan Tower.
• Appearances by pianist Jeffrey Biegle playing Lowell Liebermann's Piano Concerto No. 3
• Composer, musician, and educator Gunther Schuller conducting his piece Seven Studies on Themes of Paul Klee

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• Thursday Nights - Chicken Parm Dinner
  Join us every Thursday night for our Chicken Parmesan Dinner. Parmesan-breaded chicken breasts, fried and topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and served over pasta. A perennial favorite!
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• Gallery 99: Fine Art For Cheap
  For three days in February, lovers of art can enjoy buying exceptional art for less at Gallery 99. This temporary art gallery will host the works of 15 regional artists, showcasing original paintings, prints, fiber art, pottery, glass, furniture, note cards, and more.
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• SMSA Community Players Presents "Annie"
  
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• 4th Annual Purple Ribbon Cancer Ride
  Snowmobilers riding for a cure! On Saturday, February 4th don't miss the 4th annual Purple Ribbon Cancer Ride.
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• Chowderfest 2012 in Saratoga, NY
  Chowderfest 2012 in Saratoga Springs NY! Come enjoy samples of chowder from 50 local restaurants in Saratoga. Once you taste them all you can vote for your favorite! Bring your furry friend for a bowl of chowder just for them!
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