There has been an orchestra in Edmonton, in one form or another, dating back almost to the establishment of the city. And while 1920 saw the first performance of a community orchestra under the name Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, it was the vision and guidance of a small and dedicated group that brought about the professional ESO in 1952, by establishing the Edmonton Symphony Society.
In the last 50-plus years, the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra has taken its place as one of Canada's foremost orchestral ensembles. Its current roster includes 56 musicians from Canada and around the world, performing a wide-ranging repertoire from the great classical masterworks and popular favourites and children's concerts.
The Francis Winspear Centre for Music is the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra's performance home. Located in the Arts District in the heart of downtown Edmonton, the intimate surroundings of Winspear Centre offer an up-close musical experience like no other. The incredible acoustics of the hall allow music to be performed 'unplugged' and are equal to the great concert halls of the world.
RECORDINGS
most links lead to audio samples
Procol Harum Live in Concert with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, 1971
Tom Cochrane & Red Rider: The Symphony Sessions
P.J. Perry and the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra
Frenergy: Music of John Estacio
Electra Rising: Music of Malcolm Forsyth
Shauna Rolston with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra
Atayoskewin
Great Orchestral Marches
Great Verdi Arias
