History
In 1975 a small group of musicians got together for the joy of playing
standard classical repertoire. Although their access to music was extremelty
limited, Roy Bennett agreed to lead them. By the time of the orchestra's
incorporation in fall 1975, 22 string players were in the group, and wind players were
invited to join them. Financial resources were meager; they consisted of dues
paid by members and the director.
The first concert was performed in 1976 at the Mabel Tainter Memorial Theater in
Menomonie, Wisconsin. In 1977 the CVS became a member of the Association of Wisconsin
Symphony Orchestras and the American Symphony Orchestra League.
The CVS grew to a membership of 60-65 musicians for the 1978-79 season and
remains about the same size today. The State: Regional Arts Center has been home
to our office and the location of most concerts since 1988.
In 1978, Music Director Roy Bennett left Eau Claire and guest conductors led the
group for a season. Ivar Lunde, a music professor at UW-Eau Claire, became the
conductor for the next nine seasons. In 1987, Dr. Merton Johnson arrived to
chair the UW-Eau Claire Music Department. He conducted the CVS orchestra from
1988 to 1993. In the fall of 1992, Nobuyoshi Yasuda came to UW-EC to teach
violin and conduct the UW-EC Symphony Orchestra. He has been our music director
since 1993.
Mission
The mission of the Chippewa Valley Symphony is to provide an excellent
symphonic experience to audiences in the Chippewa Valley.
The Chippewa Valley Symphony will:
1. Increase the understanding and appreciation of orchestral music to an
expanding audience.
2. Provide our audiences with a diversity of orchestral selections and artists.
3. Provide an opportunity for talented local musicans to perform.