Where did we come from?
The Clear Lake Symphony, with Music Director Dr.
Charles Johnson, starts its 33rd season in the fall of 2008. The
symphony, recognized as a premiere community orchestra, is a member of the
American Symphony Orchestra League, The Arts Alliance Center of
Clear Lake, Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce, ASCAP and BMI.
Its goals are to present classical music for the
residents of the Bay area and to provide opportunities for Bay Area
musicians to create a variety of musical experiences for the enjoyment of
the Bay Area community and to participate in the music
education of the area.
Seven regular
performances
are held each season featuring classical selections and guest
soloists. In addition to their classical repertoire, the Symphony
performs a Christmas
"Pops" Gala and a Fall "Pops" Concert annually.
Started in 1976 as the University of Houston-Clear
Lake Community Orchestra, the symphony incorporated as a non-profit
organization in 1983 and was then renamed the Clear Lake Symphony. The
symphony maintains a 501 (C) (3) non-profit status from the IRS.
The major past guest artists have included pianist
Albert Hirsch, clarinetist Richard Pickar, classical guitarist Neil
Archer-Roan, and internationally-acclaimed cellist Sharon Robinson.
To enhance the music education of the community,
the symphony holds an Annual Youth Concerto
Competition. Winners are
invited to perform at one of the specially planned classical concerts
during the season. Also, individual and small groups of musicians perform
in area schools and libraries as schedules permit, at no cost to the
students. |
