Classical music lovers have it pretty good in Portland, Oregon. There are numerous concerts in many locations happening all the time, and one of the oldest musical attractions is the Oregon Symphony. It began performing in the 1800s, making it the oldest orchestra in the West. And the years have not diminished its appeal—according to the symphony website, attendance is usually 225,000 people per season. “The Oregon Symphony is proud to provide varied music of the highest artistic standards to diverse audiences, with a commitment to educating children as the musicians and audiences of tomorrow,” reads the symphony’s Web site. There are a number of diverse concerts, varying from classical to gospel to youth. It’s quite a tourist draw, bringing in music lovers from all over the Northwest and the rest of the U.S. The symphony has been acknowledged for having “acclaimed music directors, skilled performers, diverse programs and outstanding community services in education and regional touring.”
And the Oregon Symphony isn’t the only place to find classical music. There’s the Salem Orchestra, the Portland Baroque Orchestra, Willamette University, University of Oregon and Western Oregon University. Music Schools are actually great places to find concerts, because there’s nearly always one happening. And prices are just a fraction of what they would be anywhere else. In fact, many of them are free. (Which, as everyone knows, is the best price of all!)
Tags: oregon symphony, portland baroque orchestra, portland symphony, western oregon university
