Since the first concert of the Billings Symphony Society in May of 1951, the organization’s mission has been to enhance the quality of life in this part of the Rocky Mountain Northwest by offering musical enlightenment and intellectual stimulation to traditional audiences, as well as those who are geographically isolated, economically challenged and culturally underserved. This mission remains the driving force behind the Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale (BSO&C), the only symphonic orchestra and chorale serving a regional population of 400,000 people located throughout south central Montana and northeastern Wyoming. Music Director Anne Harrigan, along with the 135+ members of the BSO&C present an annual season from September through June, featuring six subscription concerts, two performances of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker with the accompaniment of a renowned ballet company, a New Year’s Eve event, multiple performances of an annual free Family Concert and a free Symphony in the Park concert. Each season, the BSO&C perform for nearly 40,000 people, and help introduce music to children, youth, adults, and seniors in the region through Explore Music!, the organization’s music education and community engagement program.