Shreveport Symphony Orchestra
The Shreveport Symphony Orchestra (SSO) is a nonprofit professional orchestra based in Shreveport, Louisiana. Established in 1948, it holds the distinction of being the oldest continually operating professional orchestra in Louisiana[1][3]. The SSO is a member of the Louisiana Association of Symphony Orchestras (LASO), a consortium of seven professional orchestras founded in 2003[1].

History

Founded by local citizens under the leadership of Music Director John Shenaut, the SSO experienced significant growth until Shenaut’s retirement in 1981[1][3]. After interim leadership, Peter Leonard became Music Director in 1984, followed by Dennis Simons in 1996[1][3]. Financial challenges in the early 2000s led to labor disputes, but a 2005 interim agreement restored operations, securing the orchestra’s future[1].

Michael Butterman was appointed Music Director in 2005, becoming the fourth leader in the SSO’s history[3]. Under his tenure, the orchestra expanded its community engagement and programming, including collaborations with Broadway performers and educational initiatives[3].

Operations and programs

The SSO presents over 200 annual performances, including classical, popular, and educational concerts[1][3]. Notable recent programming includes The Best of Broadway (2025), featuring theatrical repertoire, and Trumpet Throwdown, highlighting principal trumpet Tyler Moore[2]. Educational outreach remains a priority, with free events comprising more than half of its seasonal offerings[1][3].

Governance

As a 501(c)(3) organization, the SSO operates under a nonprofit model with a budget between $1 million and $3 million[5]. It serves multiple parishes, including Caddo, Bossier, and DeSoto[5], and emphasizes accessibility through donor-supported initiatives[5].