The Cascade Symphony Orchestra Inc is a nonprofit community orchestra based in South Snohomish County, Washington. Founded in 1962, it is Snohomish County's oldest community orchestra and has grown into a significant cultural institution serving a population of over 150,000 people.

History

The Cascade Symphony Orchestra originated from a group of musicians in South Snohomish County who, until 1962, traveled weekly across Puget Sound to perform with the Bremerton Symphony under conductor Robert Anderson. When Anderson resigned, these musicians sought to form their own orchestra. In April 1962, Cascade Symphony was incorporated under Washington State charter. The orchestra gave its inaugural concert on June 4, 1962, featuring a 60-member ensemble conducted by Robert Anderson[1][2][4].

Robert Anderson led the orchestra for 30 years, retiring in April 1992. Following his retirement, Roupen Shakarian was appointed Music Director and Conductor in September 1992 but resigned in April 1995. Subsequently, Gregory Sullivan Isaacs was selected as Music Director in 1995. During the late 1990s, the orchestra experienced significant board and musician turnover and challenges related to audience engagement and organizational direction. Revisions to bylaws took place, and an Orchestra Committee was formed by musicians to address musical integrity and vision[2].

Over the decades, the Cascade Symphony Orchestra has maintained a high standard of musical performance and has become a cherished part of the community’s cultural life. By 2011, it celebrated its 50th anniversary season with an 82-member orchestra, presenting multiple concerts annually, including subscription series, children's concerts, and chamber music events[5].

Mission

The mission of the Cascade Symphony Orchestra is to nourish both its musicians and the local community by providing inspiring performances of outstanding music. It aims to uphold excellent musical standards and foster community engagement through its concerts and educational outreach[1].

Activities

The orchestra rehearses weekly, with musicians dedicating over 100 hours annually to rehearsals and performances, excluding personal practice time. It regularly presents subscription concerts, special gala events, and youth-oriented programming, contributing significantly to the cultural vitality of Edmonds and the surrounding areas[3][5].

Organizational Status

The Cascade Symphony Orchestra Inc is a registered nonprofit organization incorporated under Washington State with the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 912072869.

This enduring community orchestra reflects the commitment of local musicians and audiences to sustaining classical music culture in the Pacific Northwest.