Serving the Twin Cities since 1982
The Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra is Minnesota’s most highly regarded civic Orchestral ensemble. Our core values are: to invite new and diverse audiences to share the power and energy of live concerts in convenient neighborhood venues; to perform the full spectrum of symphonic music and encourage artistic growth in our volunteer players; and to work with host organizations to present and promote symphonic performances in their communities.
The Star Tribune has described the Metropolitan Symphony orchestra as “the very model of a modern major orchestra—community style.”
Our Story
In the 1980s, a number of recent college graduates began what was then called the “Central Chamber Orchestra” to provide the community with a rigorous ensemble committed to difficult repertoire.
The organization launched with massive success, and has grown into the well respected “Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra” thanks to committed players and volunteers who believe in our vision. We believe outstanding symphony music should be accessible to all, regardless of circumstance and without financial barriers.
The success of our organization is a communal achievement through the efforts of our musicians, the dedicated artistic leadership from our Music Director, the administrative and personal guidance of our Executive Director, the diverse professional background of our board of directors, the efforts of our staff, and the support of our audiences and donors.
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Michael Barone
Minnesota Public Radio
“Even in our Twin Cities, with the wealth of orchestral music provided by the big-budget bands… there’s always room and reason for an ensemble as accomplished and imaginative as the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra.
The intriguing variety of the music they play, and the high quality (and enthusiasm) with which they play it makes each concert a memorable occasion.”
Lisa Habeck
Soprano
“As a guest artist, I’ve found working with the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra to be a joy! Not only are they superb in their musicianship, but they have such heart and enthusiasm in their performance. The players welcome the guest as one of their own and the result is a splendid collaboration. As a performer and as an audience member I have appreciated their program choices. It is a privilege to sing with them and the wonderful William Schrickel.”
Michael Gast
Principal Horn,
Minnesota Orchestra
“It was great working with Maestro William Schrickel and the wonderful MSO on our Schumann Konzertstuck.
We appreciated the high degree of professionalism and exuberance present during our collaboration. Bravo MSO!”
Our History
Steven Amundson
2024-Current
Steven, an original founder and the first music director of the MSO when it was known as the Central Chamber Orchestra, has inspired audiences around the world with his dynamic conducting and innovative programming. His tenure at St. Olaf College, where he served as Professor of Music and Conductor of the St. Olaf Orchestra for 41 years, brought national recognition to the St. Olaf Orchestra. Under his leadership, the orchestra won the prestigious American Prize in Orchestral Performance twice and he deeply influenced a generation of musicians through his passionate teaching and innovative approaches to music education.
In addition to his significant contributions at St. Olaf, Steven served as Music Director and Conductor of the Bloomington (MN) Symphony for 13 years. During this period, he enhanced the orchestra’s repertoire and elevated its performance standards, which significantly broadened its community appeal and engagement. His leadership there was marked by creative programming and a commitment to integrating the orchestra within the community, including educational outreach and collaborative performances.
William Schrickel
2000-2023
Bill came to us with great talents, experience, and huge enthusiasm. Bill already appreciated our group’s strengths, and had nurtured them with a focus and care that bore great fruit.
Bill’s work with the orchestra was often associated with terms like collaborative; brilliant, innovative programming committed; superlative. He had a relationship with the players, board, venues, and audience that built on everything the orchestra built in the past and created great momentum for the future.
Bill led the MSO from artistic strength to strength, and our reputation for artistic excellence, collaboration and community engagement continued to grow.
William Intriligator
1996-2000
Though a young guy, William brought a wonderful “old school” outlook, as well as great musical maturity and depth.
Our playing of the Romantic masters took on an extraordinarily sensitive, expressive sound and feel. William continued reaching out to partner with other arts organizations in innovative ways.
Manny Laureano
1987-1996
Manny brought consummate musicianship, a cosmopolitan sensibility, and a panache that helped further define our artistic identity.
No less importantly, he showed us the importance of making a conscious commitment to operating as a full-size symphony orchestra, and played a leading role in the discussions that led to our current name. Manny also brought a new visibility to our group that attracted top-level professionals who wanted to play as guest artists, a tradition that continues to this day.
Steven Amundson
1982-1987
Volunteering his services during the first year, Steve Amundson of St. Olaf College became our founding Music Director. We wouldn’t be who we are today without his generosity and founding leadership.
The St. Olaf Music Department, and especially Bob Johnson, helped with organization, alumni contacts, and many loans of music.