Our Mission

The Peterborough Symphony Orchestra strives to be a catalyst for cultural enrichment and enjoyment through music in Peterborough and region.

What We Do

The Peterborough Symphony Orchestra (PSO) champions the cause of orchestral music in Peterborough and surrounding areas. Our vision is of a community united by a love of orchestral music of many eras and genres. We pursue our vision through concerts, youth outreach, and partnering with other local organizations. We provide opportunities for residents and visitors to our community to enjoy high caliber orchestral concerts. We provide talented local performers with an opportunity to learn and share their love of music with others. We provide employment and professional advancement opportunities to professional musicians in the community. We advance knowledge and appreciation of orchestral music throughout our community, for people of all ages.

Testimonials from Our Community

• The leader and violin player for the guest artist group "Sultans of String" Chris McKhool:

 “The PSO was an absolute delight!  A fantastic orchestra and amazing to work with.” 

• Our annual Community Ticketing Program provides free tickets for local charities to gift their volunteers or clients with, or members of the community who would not otherwise have the means to attend a concert, such as our traditional "Home for the Holidays" show in December.  We received some very enthusiastic feedback, including this:

“My son and I went to my first show ever, tonight. Wow, I am just ecstatic. I can't believe what I have heard. What beautiful music. Thanks to those who gave me the free tickets. I couldn't ask for a better gift.”

• Melody Thomas, a native of Peterborough, grew up in very difficult circumstances and was homeless at the age of 17.  With assistance over the next few years from many in the Peterborough community, she attended University of Toronto on a full scholarship and was able to complete a post-grad program in opera. Her appearance with the PSO marked her first opportunity to perform professionally with a full orchestra:

“I realize that the Peterborough Symphony was taking a bit of a risk by hiring an emerging artist such as myself who had never sung solo with orchestra.  I could not be more glad that Michael Newnham and the PSO took this risk, and based on the feedback I received after my performance with them, it seems as though they feel the same way!  The Peterborough Symphony made my orchestral debut such a thrilling experience.  I felt entirely supported, both by the wonderful people and by the glorious music they were making.  I literally felt intoxicated by the experience as the concert came to the close.  Thank you so much to Michael and the Peterborough Symphony for the chance to work with such a welcoming community of talented musicians!”