85 Years: Celebrating the Past, Playing for the Future
On April 12 1939, a group of musicians stepped onto the stage of the Royal Theatre to perform the iconic strains of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, marking the first performance of what would become one of BC’s most enduring cultural institutions: the Victoria Symphony. A review the next day called it “an enthusiastic demonstration of delight.”
Eighty-five years later, the Victoria Symphony continues to delight; from the Royal Theatre to coastal communities, from Splashy summer spectacles to engaging education programs. This milestone anniversary isn’t just about looking back – it’s a chance to celebrate the passion, community, and creativity that keeps the music playing.
A Civic Dream Takes Root (1939-1960s)
Though the performance on April 12, 1939 marked the first as The Victoria Symphony Orchestra, this grand attempt didn’t quite take flight. That wasn’t achieved until an ambitious group of those young musicians got together and decided to form an organization to support the orchestra, which had struggled without the structure needed to support their ambitions. In 1942, the Victoria Symphony Society was established and the orchestra returned to the stage on May 18 in the Empress Ballroom.
1939: First Victoria Symphony Concert
“The spontaneous and entirely sincere enthusiasm of an audience that filled the Crystal Ballroom, the keenness of the musicians and the thoughtful readings of the conductor were enough to indicate clearly that Victoria has come into possession of an institution that, with due appreciation and support of its citizens will become a matter of civic pride.” – “New Orchestra Stirs Enthusiasm”, Victoria Daily Times, May 1942
By 1951, the Symphony’s season had grown from two concerts to eight per year, and increased its annual budget from just $1,000 to $30,000. Steady progress continued and by 1953, ten pairs of subscription concerts were being presented plus performances in Nanaimo, Duncan, and Campbell River. Amazing local musicians and exceptional guest soloists like contralto Maureen Forrester and pianist Glenn Gould fueled the organizations ambitions and high artistic standards, which concertgoers came to expect (and continue to enjoy today).
Reaching Further, Growing Bolder (1970s-1990s)
Under the baton of Music Directors Laszlo Gati, Paul Freeman, and Peter McCoppin the Symphony embarked on ambitious projects, province-wide tours, expanded education and outreach programs, and continued to expand the orchestra’s repertoire. The 1980s brought real financial challenges due to the recession and worries about the future of the Symphony, which at its lowest point held a deficit of nearly $400,000. In 1985 new General Manager Stephen Smith brought a steady hand to help, his tenure marked the beginning of a period of remarkable growth. The number of concerts doubled to 115 annually. When Smith retired in 2000, twelve of his fifteen years tenure had been surplus seasons.
“I think through real team spirit, there is limitless opportunity to what we can all accomplish together in this city.” – Peter McCoppin, Music Director 1989-99
Financial recovery and this renewed sense of collaboration culminated in 1990 with the organizations fiftieth anniversary, kicked off by the birth of a much-loved tradition: Symphony Splash.
“This is Your Orchestra” (1990s – 2000s)
“Board president Murray Glazier says public support grew dramatically after a real effort was made to take the music into the community – to schools, seniors’ homes, the Inner Harbour – to emphasize ‘This is your orchestra.” – “Our Symphony Simply Soaring”, Victoria Weeklies March 18 1992
As the Symphony grew, so did its community roots. Strategic leadership, artistic ambitions, and passionate staff, board members and volunteers helped the organization weather challenges. However, without the support of the community, none of it would have been possible.
The 1992/93 season was declared the ‘Best Season Yet’ bringing incredibly guest artists from across Canada and the world, and an incredible roster of guest conductors. Audience numbers also surged — growing by 250% compared to the 1985/86 season, which had marked one of the Symphony’s lowest financial points.
The Women of VS
The talent and expertise of women were baked into the Victoria Symphony from the beginning. It was figures like first Concertmaster Fay Ockenden and first board president Sara Spencer who helped build the foundation for success. From the Victoria Symphony Women’s Committee who operated for more than fifty years, raising the organization’s profile and fundraising thousands of dollars to support music in the city. To the hundreds of female members of the orchestra and guest artists who poured their passion and talent into performances. All the way to VS’s first female Music Director Tania Miller who ushered in a new era. From the women who shaped the early foundation to those leading the Symphony into the future, their legacy is written into every note.
The New Millennium and Beyond
When Tania Miller took the podium in 2003, she made history as the first woman to lead a major Canadian orchestra — and brought with her a vision that would shape a new era. Known for her artistry, warmth, and innovative spirit, Tania expanded the Symphony’s reach and repertoire.
“I welcome everyone to redefine what they think being part of a live orchestra experience is all about.” – Tania Miller, Music Director 2003-2017
Under her leadership, the Symphony toured nationally for its 75th anniversary, collaborated with cutting-edge Canadian composers, and welcomed the next generation of musicians and audiences alike.
In 2017, Christian Kluxen became Music Director, ushering in a bold new chapter with his dynamic style and deeply thoughtful programming. With an international career and a deep love of symphonic music, Christian continues to challenge and inspire, building on the Symphony’s legacy while carving out its future.
“Eighty-five years ago, programming a season meant building a future for symphonic music in Victoria. Today, it’s about honouring that vision while making music relevant for our time. Every concert we perform is part of this ongoing story.” – Christian Kluxen, Music Director 2017-present
What began as a hopeful experiment eighty-five years ago has since become an integral part of the cultural fabric of Vancouver Island, growing in reach, artistry, and impact.
As we celebrate 85 years of music and look to the future, the Symphony’s strength remains its people: the musicians who dedicate themselves to their craft, the supporters who believe in the power of music, and the community that continues to show up — year after year, note after note.
Here’s to the next 85.