Orchestra History

Douglas Hargrave

Throughout its history the Charlottesville & University Symphony Orchestra has been a source of tremendous civic pride and an emblem of the bond between University and Community. A 1974 Cavalier Daily article wrote of the newly formed orchestra as "the seed of new life for symphonic music in Charlottesville." Over the years the orchestra has made great strides in musicianship, by recruiting professional musicians to serve as the core for an orchestra of principal players, talented students and community musicians.

In 1974 the McIntire Department of Music hired Douglas Hargrave as Music Director to conduct both the orchestra and the wind ensemble. With fifty musicians and an abundance of perseverance and hope, he set the course that would lead to the accomplished group recognized today as an artistic gem in a city with a rich cultural scene. The advent of the subscription series in 1975 was met with such success that back-to-back performances of concerts were instituted in 1978.

Carl Roskott

Music Director Carl Roskott came to the University in 1991, bringing with him experience gained under such celebrated American conductors as Gunther Schuller, Sheldon Morgenstern, and Murry Sidlin. Under Maestro Roskott's direction, the orchestra continued to evolve and its reputation flourished. Audiences from throughout Central Virginia came to concerts that frequently sold out.

By the early 1990s, six professional musicians served as principals. Today fifteen professional musicians act as an invaluable artistic resource to the orchestra and to the community as well. These musicians bring music to audiences far beyond the University by teaching classes in local schools, offering lessons to young musicians, and performing for local civic and religious organizations. Without question, these distinguished performers are at the forefront of Charlottesville's vibrant artistic scene.

In 2006, celebrated conductor Kate Tamarkin became Music Director and is bringing new attention to music and the arts in Charlottesville. With her distinguished career, exceptional musicality, and inspiring leadership, the orchestra is poised for further artistic growth.

The unique partnership of University and Community lends a cultural vibrancy to Charlottesville unparalleled in most cities of this size. From its beginnings over thirty years ago, the orchestra looks forward to a long future of bringing an inspired musical message to the community.