Community Support

T he Knox County Symphony is one of Knox County’s most prominent artistic organizations. T he creation of the Symphony in 1965 had three purposes, according to founder Paul Schwartz: first, to provide a training ground for young musicians of high school and college age; second, to provide a performance outlet for community musicians; and third, to provide musical fare that was both educational and entertaining for Knox County audiences—which it has done for sixty continuous years!

The Symphony is sustained through the generosity of numerous county businesses and individuals. The concerts feature soloists of national and international stature as well as superb local musicians, and the prowess of the orchestra has improved steadily over time. The Knox County Symphony has earned a central place in the cultural life of the community and maintains as its mission the fostering of classical music–making by and for our residents.

The Symphony will begin its season, as before, in the beautiful R. R. Hodges Chapel/Auditorium on the Mount Vernon Nazarene University campus. Rosse Hall on the Kenyon College campus will host the winter and spring programs, with convenient access available via an underground parking garage.

President's Letter

August 2025

Dear Friends,

We are delighted to announce the 60^th consecutive season of the Knox County Symphony and Dr. Benjamin Locke’s 42^nd year as conductor. In celebration of our 60^th anniversary, those who purchase season tickets on or before September 29 will be entered into a drawing. First prize will be two tickets to the pre-concert dinner in October (or refund, if the winners have already purchased their tickets!); second prize will be season tickets for 2026–2027.

Please invite young and old to attend the free Children’s Concert at Ariel-Foundation Park, on Sunday afternoon, September 28, at 3:00 p.m. The Gund associates from Kenyon College will enhance the musical experience by providing art activities for the symphony’s youngest patrons. Following the concert, we invite you to join us for homemade cookies and fresh apple cider. Under the roof of the Schnormeier Event Center, the concert may be enjoyed no matter the weather!

The Fall Concert at Mount Vernon Nazarene University on Saturday, October 25, will be preceded by an elegant pre-concert dinner on campus.

At our very popular Winter Concert on Saturday, January 31, and as part of our educational mission, we will continue the tradition of showcasing the winners of the Young Musicians Competition.

On Sunday, April 26, our final concert of the season will feature the Kenyon Community Choir for the joyful collaboration of instrumental and vocal music.

One more item: If you have a favorite memory of the symphony from any time in these last 60 years, whether as a player or an attendee, please type it up and send it with your season ticket subscription or email it to us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please also indicate whether we have permission to share your name. A few memories may be shared at upcoming concerts this year.

Please do consider subscribing for season tickets. This is a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the cultural growth of our community and incorporate fine, classical music into your lives. Because music is a gift to be shared, we are again offering two free guest tickets to the concert of your choice with each subscription.

As ticket sales account for only a small portion of our annual budget, please consider providing support above the basic membership level. See the enclosed brochure for the various tax-deductible patron levels for which your name will appear in every program.

Thank you for your unwavering support that has enabled people of all ages to discover the beauty and power of classical music.

With sincere appreciation,

Rebecca Abbott

President, Knox County Symphony Board