History

The Bangor Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1896, and we haven't missed a season since. This year marks our 115th season, making BSO the oldest continuously operating community orchestra in the U.S.

The Symphony owes its start to Abbie N.Garland, a popular Bangor piano teacher and composer, who -- at the age of 44 -- decided her town needed a symphony orchestra.

The first year, she managed the organization with the help of Symphony Conductor Horace Mann Pullen. The second year, she recruited musicians and the third year, she sponsored the Symphony's subscription sale. She also worked tirelessly to educate the public about Symphonic music and to create enthusiasm for unfamiliar pieces.

The Symphony played its first concert on November 2, 1896 in Bangor City Hall. Horace Mann Pullen conducted the 16-member orchestra in a program featuring Schubert's Unfinished Symphony.

Today, the Symphony's 65 musicians present six classical concerts every season, as well as POPS concerts; the Spirit of Bangor with the Robinson Ballet, Community Choruses and more; and the annual Youth Concerts in May, which feature the winners of the BSO Maine High School Concerto Competition.

Since 1896, nine conductors have held the baton for the Bangor Symphony Orchestra -- and many guest artists have brought their talents to Symphony performances.