Atlantic Symphony Orchestra
| Company type | Non-profit organization |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music, Performing arts |
| Founded | June 12, 1968 |
| Defunct | 1983 |
| Headquarters | Atlantic Canada , Canada |
Key people | Klaro Mizerit (conductor, 1968–1977), Victor Yampolsky (conductor, 1977–1983) |
| Products | Symphony orchestra performances, commercial recordings |
The Atlantic Symphony Orchestra (ASO) was a professional symphony orchestra based in Atlantic Canada, operating during the latter part of the 20th century. It held the distinction of being the sole full-time regional professional orchestra in Canadian history.
History
The ASO was created soon after the Halifax Symphony Orchestra and New Brunswick Symphony Orchestra ceased operations, filling the void for a dedicated full-time professional symphony orchestra in Atlantic Canada. Its formation on 12 June 1968 resulted from collaborative efforts by committees in Halifax, Sydney, Saint John, Moncton, and Fredericton. Many individuals involved in these committees had previous connections to the now-defunct orchestras.
Klaro Mizerit was appointed as the inaugural conductor, serving from 1968 until 1977, with a strong focus on promoting Canadian works. Throughout the 1970s, the ASO released multiple commercial recordings and maintained a significant presence on CBC Radio.
From 1977 until its closure in 1983, Victor Yampolsky directed the orchestra. The ASO ultimately disbanded due to financial challenges. Subsequently, a smaller group known as Symphony Nova Scotia emerged, incorporating several former ASO members and continuing to perform.
Discography
- Atlantic Symphony Orchestra / Orchestre Symphonique Atlantique, 1970, Independent
- The Atlantic Symphony Orchestra Conducted By Klaro Mizerit and Kenneth Elloway, 1972, CBC Radio Canada
- The Picasso Suite, 1975, CBC Radio Canada