The Whatcom Symphony Orchestra in Washington State has changed its name to the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra, reflecting the city where the orchestra has performed for several decades. The orchestra was founded in 1976 in Bellingham, Washington, located in Whatcom County, by a small group of musicians, and was first known as the Bicentennial Orchestra, then the Whatcom Community Orchestra, and, after 1985, the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra. The current name change follows a rebranding process that took place over several years and included the participation of staff, musicians, supporters, and season ticket-holders. In a press release, Executive Director Gail Ridenour said she anticipated that the change would “boost the organization’s exposure, both locally and beyond.” The orchestra’s new tagline is “Your Community. Your Orchestra.” During the past year, the organization has expanded its interactive Musicians in the Schools workshops; launched a Soloists in the Schools with guest artists invited to local schools for presentations, performances, and children’s book readings; and started a series of free chamber music performances throughout Whatcom County. Yaniv Attar is the orchestra’s music director.
Posted June 28, 2019
