The Ocala Symphony Orchestra's mission, to "create cultural experiences and opportunities for our community through music," reflects our genuine desire to enchance the cultural environment of the Ocala / Marion County community. We are dedicated to providing great concert experiences and serving our community through educational outreach programs, such Symphony for Schools, Veterans Helping Veterans, and special collaborations.
The OSO was founded in 1975 by group of musicians and spirited music lovers who wanted to bring the tradition of classical music to the Ocala community. A year later, in the fall of 1976, a four-concert subscription season was initiated, and the orchestra became incorporated in the State of Florida and recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation.
Over the years, the audience has grown significantly, and the OSO has become a pillar of the cultural community in Marion County. In addition to the four-concert subscription series, the orchestra performs special free concerts in cooperation with the City of Ocala, the Marion County Public School System, and dozens of community organizations.
Since 1990, the OSO has sponsored a Young Artist Competition to seek out talented young musicians who are recognized by an invitation to perform with the orchestra after intense auditions. Cash prizes are also awarded. The annual Ocala’s Symphony Under the Lights community concert on Ocala’s Historic Downtown Square, sponsored by Jenkins Auto Group, is an annual holiday tradition. The Orchestra has been invited to perform at many special events sponsored by local organizations, such as the annual performance at Fine Arts for Ocala’s Symphony Under the Stars.
The Ocala Symphony Orchestra, Inc. is registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services under #CH11602. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free at 1-800-435-7352, within Florida. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the State of Florida.
