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History
The Butler Orchestral Association was established in 1949, with the first board of directors meeting on December 15. The organization was co-sponsored by the Butler Tuesday Musical Club, the Butler Board of Recreation and the Butler Musical Society. I.M. Jaffe was elected the first president. To enlist community interest and financial support, the association held an invitation rehearsal on February 5, 1950. About 200 people attended. Pittsburgh musicians joined the group to provide balanced instrumentation. The premier concert was held on April 17, 1950, with Edward Roncone as the first conductor. This was also the opening concert of Butler County's Sesquicentennial celebration. The concert was greeted with enthusiasm. The name of the organization was later changed to the Butler County Symphony Association. In each season, the Association sponsors six concerts, one of which is a Family Concert geared to all ages. The orchestra has gained in stature over the years and is now considered one of the finest community orchestras in the western Pennsylvania area. |
