History
An amazing achievement for any region boasting a symphony orchestra, the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra is now presenting its 92nd season of concerts.
Except for two years during World War II, the orchestra has operated continuously since 1913. From its beginnings as a 30-piece ensemble of dedicated recreational players, it has evolved into a fully professional symphony orchestra of 75 musicians. Under the guidance of Music Director and Conductor Steven Karidoyanes, the orchestra has taken its place as a major cultural force in southeastern New England, earning support from patrons and concert-goers in more than 180 communities in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
G. Herbert Clarke, a Kingston violin teacher, founded the Orchestra in 1913 to give his students an opportunity to play together in ensemble. Clarke organized 30 musicians, began rehearsals, and conducted the first performance of the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra on December 28, 1913. Following his death in 1932, the Orchestra was reorganized under Edgar Beauregard and, with the exception of a few years during World War II, continued under his direction until 1950. The baton was passed from Beltrando Brini (1950-58), to Josef Cobert (1959-61), Jerome Cohen (1962-66), and John Pacheco (1967-72), as well as guest conductors.
The Phil became a chartered, non-profit corporation in 1973 and, with Victor Yampolsky of the Boston Symphony as conductor, began to move from amateur to semi-professional status. Rudolph Schlegel led the orchestra through a period of unmatched growth, dramatically raising the level of artistic quality and escalating public support.
Steven Karidoyanes was named Music Director and Conductor in 1994. His talents, energy and dedication have brought the orchestra to even greater artistic heights as he guides the orchestra toward its vision . . . excellent music, close to home.
