30th anniversary season breaks symphony attendance records

After a record-breaking 30th anniversary season, the Symphony is tuned and ready to go for a very busy season next year.

"Last year was terrific. We had record attendance at the concerts and the orchestra never sounded better. We're finishing all the details for our concerts for next year, and it's going to be another great season", said Thomas Jones, Conductor and Music Director of the Symphony.

"But equally important for us is the increased level of community service we're planning for next year".

During the past 3 years, the Symphony has been conducting classroom sessions on symphonic instruments for almost 2000 Grade 4 students. "This is one of the most well-received programmes we've ever done, and our sponsors (Royal Bank, Transcanada, Grand and Toy) have been really supportive" said Jones. "We'll be continuing this Grade 4 programme and piloting a
Grade 5 programmes as well next year".

Also new for 2007_2008 will be the Strings for Kids Programme, a partnership between Grand and Toy, the Symphony String School, and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of North Bay.

Youngsters will receive free instrument rentals and instruction at the String School. "We think we can offer young people in these programmes a real opportunity to express themselves through music and to make it an important part of their lives", said Janet Zimbalatti, President of the Symphony and a violinist in the orchestra.

The Symphony's outreach to area volunteers will continue again next year under Freedom 55 Financial's Gift of Music Programme. "Volunteers in our area work really hard, and we're happy we can give them a free night out at the Symphony in return", said Paul Baker, Development Coordinator for the Symphony.

The Symphony's 31st season starts on October 27, and is sponsored by Northern Honda, Northgate Shopping Centre and Grand and Toy.

Subscriptions and tickets are available at the Capitol Centre Box Office, 474-4747.