Renowned for its artistic excellence, remarkable versatility of musical styles and adventurous programming, The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra is widely regarded as one of the finest chamber orchestras in the world. Entering its 58th season in September 2016, the SPCO has recently undergone transformational change with the opening of its new home, the Ordway Concert Hall, the addition of a new generation of players, and significant changes in the scope of its artistic aspirations and profile. Committed to championing new music, the SPCO is primarily an unconducted ensemble that works in close collaboration with a diverse series of artistic partners.
The virtuoso musicians of the SPCO present more than 130 concerts and educational programs each year, and are regularly heard on public radio. Additionally, the SPCO reaches more than 200,000 listeners annually through its free online Listening Library. The SPCO has released 67 recordings, commissioned 146 new works, and tours nationally and internationally.
The SPCO is nationally recognized for its commitment to broad community accessibility, innovative audience outreach efforts, and educational and family programming. Concerts are performed in venues across the Twin Cities area, a unique commitment to geographic accessibility for a major orchestra. The SPCO offers the most affordable tickets of any major orchestra in the United States, with over 50% of tickets available for $12 or less and free tickets for children ages 6-17. The SPCO’s award-winning CONNECT education program and Target® Free Family Music program provide engaging and educational experiences for thousands of Twin Cities children each year. The Liquid Music Series creates a space for innovative new projects and iconoclastic artists in unique presentation formats and invites adventurous audiences to discover the new and the fascinating within the flourishing landscape of contemporary chamber music.