Business Details
Experience the Amarillo Symphony: Enriching Community Through Music
The Amarillo Symphony stands as a beacon of musical excellence and community engagement in the Texas Panhandle. Founded with a mission to enrich lives through orchestral performances, education, and outreach, we have become a cultural cornerstone for over two decades. Our organization delivers world-class symphonic and chamber music experiences while fostering a deep appreciation for the arts through youth programs and community partnerships. With a dedicated team of professional musicians and educators, we bridge generations and backgrounds through the universal language of music. Our commitment to innovation is evident in initiatives like the Greater Southwest Music Festival and educational programs serving 26 counties. By combining artistic excellence with accessible programming, we ensure that the transformative power of music remains available to all.From grand concert hall performances to intimate chamber music gatherings, we strive to create unforgettable moments that resonate with audiences. Our leadership team brings decades of experience in music performance, education, and administration, ensuring the highest standards of artistic quality and organizational integrity. Through strategic collaborations and community-focused programming, we continue to expand our impact while maintaining financial responsibility and operational transparency. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our dedication to musical excellence, educational outreach, and community service.
Services
Symphony Performances
Chamber Music Concerts
Youth Orchestra Programs
Music Education Initiatives
Community Outreach Events
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of experience in professional orchestral performance and music education.
- Our team includes internationally recognized musicians and award-winning educators.
- We provide comprehensive music education programs serving 26 Texas Panhandle counties.
- Our organization maintains financial transparency with annual public Form 990 filings.
- We combine artistic excellence with community-focused programming and outreach.
Services
Symphony Performances
Our professional symphony orchestra delivers high-caliber performances featuring classical masterpieces and contemporary works. Each season includes diverse programming that appeals to varied musical tastes while maintaining artistic excellence. Performances showcase both local talent and guest artists, creating memorable cultural experiences for Amarillo residents and visitors.
Chamber Music Concerts
Chamber Music Amarillo presents smaller ensemble performances that highlight musical nuance and collaboration. These concerts offer audiences unique opportunities to experience close-up performances in various community venues. The series includes educational components and artist meet-and-greets to deepen audience engagement with the music.
Youth Orchestra Programs
Our youth development initiatives provide training for young musicians through orchestral participation and masterclasses. Programs serve students from elementary through high school levels, focusing on technical skill development and ensemble experience. These initiatives cultivate future generations of musicians and music appreciators in the Texas Panhandle.
Music Education Initiatives
We deliver comprehensive music education programs across 26 counties, including school residencies and workshops. Our educators combine performance demonstrations with interactive learning experiences that align with state curriculum standards. These programs aim to make music education accessible to all students regardless of geographic location or economic status.
Community Outreach Events
The symphony engages the community through free concerts, educational events, and partnerships with local organizations. These initiatives include accessible performances in non-traditional venues and collaborative projects with other cultural institutions. Our outreach efforts ensure music remains a vital part of community life throughout the region.
People
Larry H. Lang
Executive Director
A retired Air Force Colonel with 29 years of military service, Larry led five Air Force bands and served as Commander of Washington DC's premier military musical organization. He brings extensive leadership experience and international musical expertise to the Amarillo Symphony.
Irma-Esther Borup
Education & Community Engagement Director
A professional violist with over 20 years of performance experience, Irma-Esther directs six education initiatives serving the Texas Panhandle. She maintains a private teaching studio and performs with multiple local ensembles while leading the symphony's community outreach efforts.
Jean Norrell
Finance Director
A Certified Public Accountant with over 20 years of experience, Jean manages the symphony's financial operations. She graduated from Cameron University with degrees in Accounting and Finance, bringing financial expertise to ensure the organization's long-term sustainability.
Sammy Carter
Marketing Director
With a background in music performance and arts administration, Sammy leads the symphony's marketing efforts. She graduated with honors in Arts Administration from West Texas A&M University and previously worked with the San Antonio Symphony before joining Amarillo Symphony.
Kellie Bartley
Development Director
A classically trained musician with degrees from The University of Texas and West Texas A&M University, Kellie oversees fundraising and donor relations. She has performed with the Amarillo Symphony horn section since 2007 while managing development operations for the organization.
Questions
What types of performances does Amarillo Symphony offer?
We present symphony orchestra concerts, chamber music series, youth orchestra performances, and special community events throughout the year.
How can I support Amarillo Symphony's mission?
Support options include ticket purchases, donations, concert sponsorships, endowment contributions, and volunteer opportunities with our Guild.
Are there educational programs for young musicians?
Yes! Our youth orchestra programs and school initiatives serve students from elementary through high school levels across 26 counties.
How do I purchase tickets for upcoming events?
Tickets are available through our website or by calling 806-376-8782 during regular business hours.
Does the symphony offer community outreach programs?
We provide free concerts, school residencies, and accessible performances in various community venues throughout the Texas Panhandle.
Can local musicians participate in symphony programs?
Professional local musicians regularly perform with our ensembles, and we offer educational opportunities for aspiring musicians of all ages.
Videos
Reviews (3)
Carrie Young
Jun 06, 2021
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My husband and I paid for 2020-2021 season tickets at the beginning of March 2020. Since then, the symphony has been postponing their concert season through the year. We have asked for a refund multiple times and have always been given an excuse or outright told no. We were told at one point, the tickets we purchased were for NEXT YEARS concert season! I can't believe that they keep giving so much bs.
All we wanted was a refund, which we still have not received. And we have only been able to speak to someone about 10% of the time and only a few times have our messages been returned. DO NOT purchase season tickets unless you don't care if they don't provide the concerts you paid for ahead of time.
All we wanted was a refund, which we still have not received. And we have only been able to speak to someone about 10% of the time and only a few times have our messages been returned. DO NOT purchase season tickets unless you don't care if they don't provide the concerts you paid for ahead of time.
Lynne Shuman Fairbanks
Apr 27, 2019
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Going to the symphony is one of my favorite things to do, and the Amarillo Symphony does a spectacular job every time. The performances are flawless. The conductor is so excited about each piece, and that is infectious! I LOVE listening to, and watching each musician create their art, and the absolutely beautiful voices of the singers are so wonderful. Tonights production of Beethovens 9th was AMAZING! Ive never heard Ode to Joy performed so beautifully.
Ria Derryberry
Dec 18, 2017
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A wonderful & beautifully done celebration of Christmas in music and song by the Amarillo Symphony and Master Chorale. Bravo!
