North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra's
A BRIEF HISTORY
Originally founded as the Lynn Philharmonic Orchestra in 1946 by a group of fifteen North Shore musicians, the Orchestra assumed the name North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra in the fall of 1947 and commenced a remarkable musical legacy which celebrated its Fiftieth Anniversary in 1997.
As the Orchestra's second half-century begins, Music Director Robert Lehmann continues the tradition of grand classical performances and community involvement for which the North Shore Philharmonic has become known. Mr. Lehmann succeeds Hisao Watanabe, who served one year as Music Director (1996-1997) before leaving to pursue other musical commitments, and follows the legacies of the Orchestra's first two Music Directors, Rolland Tapley and Max Hobart.
The Orchestra grew and prospered in its first 25 years under Rolland Tapley, a first violinist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. It was Mr. Tapley who established the tradition of Sunday afternoon concerts frequently featuring soloists of international renown.
After Mr. Tapley's retirement in 1973, his Boston Symphony deskmate Max Hobart was appointed Music Director of the NSPO; and under Mr. Hobart, the NSPO ascended new heights as the vibrant conductor challenged the Orchestra with such monumental works as Verdi's Requiem, Mahler's Symphony No. 1 and Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, which Mr. Hobart led twice, including his farewell performance on May 19, 1996.
Through the years, the NSPO has been the stage for soloists such as violinist Joseph Silverstein, guest conductors including Arthur Fiedler and Harry Ellis Dickson and innumerable young prodigy. The Orchestra has had a presence, as well, with special performances in North Shore communities highlighting historic local events such as the 350th Commemoration of the Salem Witch Trials, the Bicentennial Celebration of the birth of George Peabody and the 100th Anniversary of Revere Beach.
The NSPO comprises approximately 65 musicians, mostly volunteers, and includes students, free lance musicians and retired persons whose talents and love for the classical repertoire are unmatched. The Orchestra is staffed by an all volunteer administrative staff which oversees all non-musical aspects of every performance. If you would like to become part of this venerable organization as a musician or volunteer, please contact us at (781) 286-0024.
Photo taken at Esplanade concert August 4, 2004.
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