Meet the Symphony
An Integral Part of Pacific Northwest Culture Since 1903
Seattle Symphony celebrates Gerard Schwarz's Farewell Season as Music Director in the 2010–2011 Season, including special events, exciting programming and some of classical music's biggest names, all to honor Maestro Schwarz and his 26 years as Music Director. The Orchestra, now presenting its 108th season, has been under the artistic leadership of Schwarz since 1985. In 1998, the Orchestra began performing in the acoustically superb and visually stunning Benaroya Hall in downtown Seattle. The Symphony is internationally recognized for its adventurous programming of contemporary works, its devotion to the classics, and its extensive recording history. Seattle Symphony has made more than 125 recordings, garnered 12 Grammy nominations and received two Emmy Awards. The Orchestra is also known for its extensive education programming, which annually serves 150,000 people of all ages. From September through July, audiences number 315,000 people both at Benaroya Hall and in the community.