Founded in 1965 as a community orchestra, Eugene Symphony’s early years included performances in living rooms, schools and churches. The orchestra took up residence in Eugene’s Hult Center for the Performing Arts in 1982 and has since performed with the likes of violinist Itzhak Perlman, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, soprano Renee Fleming, Portland’s treasured Pink Martini, and […]
Oregon Bach Festival
In 1970 German organist and conductor Helmuth Rilling came to the University of Oregon for a series of workshops and an informal concert. Since then, Oregon Bach Festival—through the efforts of Rilling, co-founder Royce Saltzman, and a cadre of volunteers, musicians, patrons, and donors—has blossomed into one of the foremost celebrations of Bach’s music and legacy […]
Choral Society of Eugene City
1878 Choral Society of Eugene City was formed – earliest non-sectarian efforts of organized singing. The first known public appearance of the society was the UO commencement in June 1884.
Eugene City Brass Band
Eugene’s first documented organized band. Active years as a band: 1859 – 1872 Active years as an association: 1872 – 1940s? On March 5, 1859 the Eugene City Brass Band (a 14-piece band) gave a concert at the courthouse. A news item in the People’s Press had this to say about the concert: “…Notwithstanding the rain […]