LUDLOW, Vt. – Elise Brunelle, Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO) executive director, spoke to the Ludlow Rotary Club about the varied programs and concerts the orchestra performs. The VSO places a high priority on youth exposure to classical music in addition to its traditional concerts performed around the state.
The 80-90 musicians perform more than 40 concerts statewide annually. Concerts range from small ensembles, like the free wind ensemble coming to Ludlow’s Heald Auditorium on Oct. 18, at 2 p.m., to school educational performances, to the extravagant July 4 outdoor concerts. The full orchestra performs regularly, including its upcoming concert at the Paramount Theater in Rutland on Nov. 14, with Judy Collins. Its goal is to make music accessible to all Vermonters.
In its ongoing effort to reach Vermonters in all parts of the state, Brunelle noted that Music Director Andrew Crust posts Facebook videos regularly. The statewide orchestra started in 1934, with Brunelle as executive director since 2020. As the face of the VSO, she looks forward to seeing many locals at its concerts this season.