Mission & Core Values
Mission
Vision
Goals & Objectives
- Inspire people of all ages to develop an appreciation for symphonic music.
- Provide accessible, real-life orchestral experiences for area children and students.
- Create an outlet for talented musicians to share their passion for music with the community.
Core Values
We honor our TEAM
We each CONTRIBUTE and COLLABORATE together to advance the DSO.
We cherish our COMMUNITY
We are OPEN and WELCOMING, RESPECTING the full diverse range of backgrounds and experiences of those with whom we interact.
We are committed to EXCELLENCE
We CONTINUOUSLY STRIVE to be our best and act with INTEGRITY.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility & Inclusion
The DuPage Symphony Orchestra strives to provide artistic excellence, inspiration, and cultural enrichment to the community through music. We at the DSO understand that this mission is best achieved by drawing on the skills, talents, and perspectives of a broad and diverse group of individuals. People of all races, creeds, genders, ages, sexual orientations, and abilities are valued by our organization. We recognize that the power of music transcends all prejudicial and discriminatory barriers, and we are against any effort that is contrary to this belief. The DSO commits to include diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion into the core of our programming, as we believe in building an inclusive DSO culture that not just welcomes but celebrates differences.
Strategic Priorities 2021-2024
- Drive organizational strength and effectiveness by attracting, developing and retaining diverse talent for board, volunteer and orchestra membership.
- Cultivate diverse audiences and donors through inspirational orchestral, chamber, and small group performances.
- Enrich our community and reach new audiences through targeted youth educational and community engagement programs.
- Sustain a solid financial foundation to support future growth through ongoing donor development, strong programming and sound financial practices.
Download a copy of our Strategic Plan here.
History
The DuPage Symphony Orchestra is a 501(c)(3) not-for profit organization that was founded in 1954 with forty-five volunteer musicians. Russell Harvey, co-founder of the orchestra, led as Music Director for 31 years and Maestra Barbara Schubert joined in 1986.
Under her dynamic leadership, the DSO has grown to more than 100 highly talented volunteer musicians. In 2008, 2013, and 2021, the DSO was named Community Orchestra of the Year by the Illinois Council of Orchestras.
We continue to recruit musicians with unparalleled skill and dedication, thereby strengthening the ensemble’s performance capabilities with an expanding repertoire, which in turn increases the musical knowledge of our audiences.
Our subscription and family concerts are performed at Wentz Concert Hall, the premier performance destination in Chicago’s western suburbs, on the campus of North Central College (located in the heart of downtown Naperville).
