Richardson Symphony Orchestra

Now in its 62nd year the orchestra is comprised of a core of about 60 professional musicians from throughout the DFW area under the direction of the Music Director and Conductor Clay Couturiaux. Founded in 1961 the RSO typically performs a season of 6 subscription performances of popluar and classical live music. Some performances feature guest soloists vocal and instrumental from all over the world or popular local choral groups or soloists. In addition to its regular concert season select orchestra members may play in contract performances. Examples include providing a quartet for an event or providing orchestral accompaniment for a production at the Eisemann Center.

In line with its mission of developing your artist and promoting music education in general the RSO is actively involved in elementary educational programs through our Symphony Days classroom visits and special children's concerts. Each elementary school in Richardson Independent School District is offered the opportunity to participate in a program which involves an on-site classroom visit by our musicians to demonstrate their instrument and prepare the children to appreciate and enjoy an upcoming concert performed specifically for them at the Eisemann Center. In many cases the concert they attend as part of the Symphony Days program is the first classical concert these children have attended. The program focus is third graders. In the past we have also made the program available to many private schools and home school groups.

The Young Artist Competition draws young string players and pianists from across the nation and beyond. Eligible young artists compete with the first place winner being awarded a cash prize as well as the opportunity to present their chosen concerto or other work with the Richardson Symphony Orchestra during one of our spring concerts.