history
By the community, for the community
The Calvin Community Symphony, formerly known as the Calvin Alumni Orchestra, was founded in 1994 by former members of Calvin University’s student ensembles. The symphony allows local musicians to continue to serve the community, hone their skills, and bless God by sharing performances of classical orchestral literature. A number of the founding musicians are still members today.
The orchestra is made up of a variety of musicians from the greater Grand Rapids and West Michigan community who share a love of performing classical orchestral literature. We hope to broaden our audience and increase our orchestra size by widening the door for community players and students to join us.
The orchestra is governed by a self-elected board and is supported by its own membership and patrons. The symphony is also generously supported by the Calvin Alumni Association, the Calvin Music Department, and the Calvin Academy for Life-Long Learning (CALL). The orchestra's members, who give freely of their time and talent, come from all walks of life. All share a common love of performing great orchestral literature from composers past and present, find joy in sharing God’s gift of music with their community, and an abiding respect for Calvin's educational mission and performing arts tradition.
music directors
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![Scott VandenBerg conducting]()
Scott VandenBerg
2019 - Present
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John Varineau
2013 - 2019
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Robert Nordling
2005 - 2012
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Dr. Derald DeYoung
1994 - 2005
Past concert literature
support the music
The Calvin Community Symphony thrives on the support of our audiences, members, and community at large. Your financial gifts enable us to play the music we love for audiences to enjoy.