About the SSO

Did you know that in 1956, a small group of local citizens formed the Sault Symphonette. With support from Algoma Steel, the Symphonette gave live concerts and radio broadcasts. In 1969, the group was renamed the Sault Symphony. Within four years the group had a board of directors and joined the Ontario Federation of Symphony Orchestras as Ontario's 25th symphony orchestra. The organization emerged stronger than ever with the appointment in 1977 of the present conductor and artistic director, Dr. John Wilkinson, who continues to dedicate himself to our Orchestra to this day.

The Sault Symphony of today continues to work at providing varied and exciting programs, often with internationally recognized soloists. Its continued existence is a tribute to the hard work of board members, volunteers, musicians and conductors.

What We Do

Season Presentations

Of course, the Symphony is best known for its stellar programming that it brings to the community each season. For 37 years, the Symphony has maintained its international appeal of our local musicians, the amazing talent that has been brought in to our community and the culturally diverse and significant works that have been presented. 

Sault Symphony School of Music

The Symphony’s commitment to the education of music is highlighted through our School of Music. We offer personalized and group musical instruction in violin, viola, piano, voice, flute, cello, guitar, woodwinds, brass instruments, old-time fiddling, percussion, and music theory. We also offer music for children as young as aged 1 through our Stepping Stones program and in-class instruction. (New Sault Symphony School of Music website coming soon)

"Musicfest: Bratwurst, Beer & Beethoven"

This popular community event will host its 18th season in the summer of 2011. Presented on the waterfront every June, this event brings together local musicians, dancers, artists and artisans under one tent for a full day of entertainment and events that is enjoyable for all audiences. 

Work in Our Communities

In May 2010, the Sault Symphony once again hosted the Young Artists’ Competition. Last held in 2006, this popular competition invites young people under the age of 21 and from across the Algoma District and Tri-County area of Michigan, to compete. The top four receive cash prizes with the winner also having the opportunity to perform with the Sault Symphony Orchestra.

We are dedicated to our music education and outreach endeavors. Through our commitment to community, the Symphony presents concerts each year for school aged children on both sides of our border.

What is new

The Sault Symphony only has growth in mind as we move into the future. In February 2010 the Sault Symphony was fortunate to receive a grant to hire a Marketing and PR Specialist. Joanne Kovich has more than a decade of experience in marketing and promotion of the arts and her strategic vision and plans for the upcoming season and beyond are proactive and out-of-the-box. 

Under her guidance, the Sault Symphony plans to grow a more diversified audience base, extend the campaigning on both sides of our border and throughout the regions/area and ensure a sustainable growth pattern for the Sault Symphony and Symphony School of Music.