Founded in 1881, the Boston Symphony Orchestra believes in music and nature’s transformative power. As the second oldest of America’s five major symphony orchestras, its work has had a multi-faceted positive impact on the community. 

The orchestra’s programming includes performances in outdoor parks, horticultural education, and conservation of Tanglewood, its renowned music center in The Berkshires for emerging music professionals. BSO has also supported Frederick Law Olmsted’s Emerald Necklace, the chain of parks that stretches from Boston Common to Franklin by commissioning and performing a 15-minute chamber symphony composed by Andrew List. Each of its three movements is named after a portion of the park system. BSO community engagement programs demonstrate a deep dedication to building community through collaborative, mutually beneficial relationships and shared artistic experiences that connect people of all ages and musical backgrounds.

It is clear the Boston Symphony Orchestra has had a remarkable and lasting impact on the civic life of Boston for 141 years.