About the Gifu Symphony Orchestra

The Gifu Prefectural Symphony Orchestra was established in 1953 as the Gifu Symphony Orchestra and became a public interest incorporated association in March 2011. The orchestra consists of 102 members, all of whom are amateur musicians from various professional backgrounds.

The orchestra performs 5 to 6 concerts annually, primarily focusing on three self-produced performances. It is dedicated to promoting and enhancing music culture in the region through performances at local schools and community events, as well as nurturing the Gifu Junior Orchestra. In 1998, a dedicated rehearsal space was completed. To celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2003, the orchestra held a successful concert at Suntory Hall in Tokyo, and in 2009, it celebrated its 55th anniversary with a concert at the Golden Hall of the Vienna Musikverein.

In 2013, for its 60th anniversary, the orchestra performed Mahler's Symphony No. 2, "Resurrection," delivering a powerful message. During its 65th anniversary in 2018, it performed Saint-Saens' Symphony No. 3, "Organ Symphony," at the Aichi Arts Theater Concert Hall as part of the Juroku Promenade Concerts, reaching audiences beyond the prefecture. In August 2023, the orchestra celebrated its 70th anniversary with a commemorative concert at the Aichi Arts Theater, which received high acclaim.

The orchestra has been recognized with several awards, including the "Cultural Contribution Award" from the Minister of Education in 1984, the "Gifu Shimbun Grand Prize" in 2007, and the "Hometown Cultural Award" from Gifu City in 1999.