Oregon Symphony Association In Salem

The history of the Oregon Symphony in Salem began when a committee of Salem music lovers asked the “Portland” Symphony to bring one of their concerts to Salem in 1955. It was a special concert featuring guest conductor Igor Stravinsky. On January 11, 1955, Igor Stravinsky raised his baton in the North Salem High School Auditorium. The concert was so successful that the Salem committee requested three more concerts the following year. Subsequently, articles of incorporation were filed in 1955 and the Salem Symphony Society was born. The concert venue was moved to Willamette University Fine Arts Auditorium, which has remained its home since.