One of the oldest community orchestras in the United States, the PVS was founded to "serve the Pioneer Valley through music in three ways: by performing symphonic and choral music; by providing members of the community the opportunity to participate in making music; and through musical education, particularly by introducing young children to live orchestral music."
The orchestra, under the dynamic leadership of Music Director Paul Phillips, provides professional musical direction for over 200 volunteer musicians. Approximately 95 instrumentalists and over 120 singers participate annually, producing six symphonic concerts, as well as family, educational, and choral programs. Membership in both orchestra and chorus is open to any qualified musician. Participants range in age from high school to retirement years. The geographically diverse membership of the orchestra — from 36 different communities in western Massachusetts, and six communities in Connecticut, New Hampshire and Vermont — is testimony to the orchestra’s reputation and quality.
Under the direction of Music Director Paul Phillips, the PVS has gained national recognition for its programming of contemporary music. In June 1997, the PVS won the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers annual award for adventurous programming. In celebration of its 60th anniversary season, the PVS presented two world premieres. Each of the past eight seasons has featured performances of works by living composers.
