The Florida Orchestra

The Florida Orchestra's History

The Florida Orchestra, one of the Sunshine State's most prized cultural treasures, boasts an illustrious history and an unwavering commitment to bringing classical music to the residents of Florida. Nearly half a century old, the orchestra has touched the lives of millions through live concert performances and community programs, making it a vital part of Florida's vibrant cultural scene.

The Florida Orchestra came into being in 1968, when two existing orchestras, the St. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra and the Tampa Philharmonic, merged. The intention was to create an ensemble that could serve the entire Tampa Bay area. The orchestra's inaugural concert took place on November 14, 1968, at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. This marked the beginning of what has been a fantastic musical journey.

Live concert events form the lifeblood of The Florida Orchestra. The organization performs over 100 concerts annually, consisting of various series, such as the Masterworks, Pops, Coffee Concerts, and Rock series. These concerts serve a community of over 10 million residents throughout Tampa Bay, from tiny community spaces to opulent concert halls. They are often known for their innovative programming, which mixes classic staples with contemporary works, making their concerts a hub of diversity and creativity.

Over the years, The Florida Orchestra has played host to a bevy of internationally acclaimed artists, including Itzhak Perlman, Renee Fleming, Yo-Yo Ma, Joshua Bell, and Lang Lang. Additionally, the orchestra has also collaborated with illustrious guest conductors, bringing a unique flavor to each concert event.

Under the leadership of Music Director Michael Francis, the Florida Orchestra has seen an intensification of their concert activities. Francis, who assumed his role in 2015, has continued the orchestra's legacy of innovation, leading a richly varied repertoire and incorporating multimedia elements into performances. The number of live concert-goers has significantly increased during his tenure, a testament to the orchestra’s continually growing popularity.

Attending a live concert of The Florida Orchestra is an immersive experience that goes beyond just music. The grandeur and aura that are generated when an orchestra performs in an acoustically superior concert hall are palpable. The Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg, and Straz Center in Tampa, are among some of their popular venues, setting the stage for unforgettable musical experiences.

The Orchestra has worked diligently to make their concerts accessible to all. They offer affordable ticket prices and regularly stage free concerts in the community. Additionally, their live radio broadcasts on Classical WSMR 89.1 and 103.9 FM make their performances accessible to those who can't attend in person.

Further, in response to the limitations necessitated by COVID-19, the orchestra took additional steps to bring music to the community through live streaming their concerts. Even in challenging times, they have continued to demonstrate a commitment to their mission of enriching the life of the Tampa Bay area, as it has done for over half a century.

From its humble beginnings to its current status as a renowned, respected musical institution, The Florida Orchestra has woven a rich tapestry of cultural enhancement into the fabric of Florida. The live concert events produced by this amazing ensemble are not simply performances; they are experiences, journeys into the soul of music. And thankfully, the journey continues, as The Florida Orchestra strums the chords of history, melody, and community connection.

More About The Florida Orchestra

TFO's Masterworks series features traditional classical compositions and showcases some of the most revered pieces by prodigious composers. These performances frequently feature iconic pieces such as Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 'Ode to Joy,' Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5, and Mahler's Symphony No.1. These shows are a testament to the mastery of the orchestra, proving to be a big draw for classical music lovers seeking to experience these timeless symphonies in an authentic live setting.

Beyond its classical repertoire, one of the most popular features of TFO's live performances are their Pops series. These concerts offer a unique orchestral take on popular music from various genres and eras. One standout performance was the "Beatles vs. Stones: A Musical Showdown." This live event saw TFO perform renditions of popular songs from two of the most influential rock bands of all time, generating a buzz among fans and resulting in a high demand for tickets.

Another well-received live event that saw huge ticket sales was TFO’s tribute to legendary composer John Williams, where popular scores from films such as 'Star Wars', 'E.T.' and 'Jurassic Park' were brought to life. The performance offered an unforgettable experience for movie enthusiasts, with many flocking to buy tickets for a chance to revisit their favorite cinematic soundtracks.

TFO also knows how to celebrate the holiday season in style, with their "Holiday Pops" live events drawing large crowds each year. These concerts feature yuletide classics and seasonal hits, with a special orchestral twist. These concerts often sell out, with audiences eager to share in the festive cheer.

The remarkable performances by TFO extend to their Rock series too, where contemporary hits are given a symphonic makeover. Among these, the Pink Floyd tribute has been a massive hit, with their performance of 'The Dark Side of the Moon' album attracting rock enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.

The availability and purchase of tickets for these live events have been made convenient through their well-designed website. Here, potential attendees can find detailed information about the events, including the repertoire, dates, venues, and ticket prices. The straightforward online ticketing system allows a seamless purchasing experience.

The core of TFO's success lies in its ability to offer a rich variety of music genres to its audiences, with each performance meticulously executed in a live setting. The high demand for tickets to these live events is a testament to the orchestra's popularity and affinity for delivering unforgettable music experiences. The Florida Orchestra continues to harmoniously blend the traditional and contemporary, drawing diverse crowds and solidifying its reputation as a prominent force in Florida's cultural landscape.