by Elise Goitia '18

The Knox-Galesburg Symphony has been selected to receive the 2015 Orchestra of the Year Award from the Illinois Council of Orchestras. This marks the fourth time in its history that the Knox-Galesburg Symphony has won the prestigious award.

The Orchestra of the Year Award is presented annually to a symphony that has proven its overall excellence in areas such as programming, public relations, community outreach, opportunities for youth, community support, and fiscal responsibility.

One of 152 orchestras in the state of Illinois, the Knox-Galesburg Symphony (KGS) has a long tradition of excellence.

KGS has received 15 additional awards from the Illinois Council of Orchestras since ICO's founding in 1974. The awards have been in various categories, including Cultural Leadership of the Year and Programming of the Year. On three occasions, Conductor of the Year Awards have been presented to KGS artistic director and conductor Bruce Polay, a professor of music at Knox College. Executive director Pearl Strickland is a two-time recipient of two ICO awards, one for General Manager of the Year and the other for Community Relations of the Year.

Originally founded in 1951, the Knox-Galesburg Symphony brings Galesburg and the surrounding communities innovative performances with trained and talented professionals. KGS also offers educational opportunities for all age groups. Focused on providing musical productions to the public, the Knox-Galesburg Symphony showcases artists of state, national, and international status.

The Illinois Council of Orchestras was founded to encourage, promote, and assist orchestras throughout Illinois. It provides consultants and speakers for orchestra conferences, and it organizes educational conferences for member organizations, including musicians, staff, board, volunteers, and audiences.

The Knox-Galesburg Symphony will receive the ICO award at its 2014-2015 season concert finale on Saturday, April 25 at the Orpheum Theatre.