The critics agree!

The VSO is Hampton Roads' major league team.   Here are some reviews from respected arts critics:

"... a first rate band, worthy of consideration at the top. Virginia is a  lucky state to have such an orchestra at its disposal!"
 - New York Concert Review


In 1991 Maestro JoAnn Falletta became our Music Director. Since her arrival, we have become  the cultural flagship for Hampton Roads and  the  Commonwealth.

In 1997 we performed in Carnegie Hall, and few years later we were invited to perform at the Kennedy Center.  The critics were impressed:

"The performance of the Virginia Symphony at Carnegie Hall was energetic,  committed, and finely polished...rich warm string sound...superbly detailed wind  and brass playing." - The New York Times

In 1998 we were accepted into the prestigious International Conference of Symphony and Opera Musicians. Virginia has other orchestras, from community symphonies to professional ensembles, but only the VSO merits inclusion in such elite company.


"The extraordinary talent, integrity and dedication to excellence of the  Virginia Symphony never cease to amaze and inspire me. I feel privileged to work with this superb orchestra and proud that Hampton Roads is home to one of the finest symphonies in our country." - JoAnn Falletta

When the world famous Royal Philharmonic Orchestra played in Newport News in January, music lovers compared us favorably:

"The Virginia Symphony can go head to head with the big boys anytime." -  Daily Press

Under JoAnn Falletta’s baton we have recorded 8 compact discs to great  acclaim:

“...this performance is clearly the better of the two.....one of the better versions around.”
-American Record Guide, comparing the VSO’s recording of Elgar’s Enigma Variations to the Vienna Philharmonic’s.

"I’ve never heard finer oboe playing." - Ray Still, Principal Oboe Emeritus of the Chicago Symphony, referring to VSO Principal Oboist Sherie Aguirre.

Our most important reviews aren’t written by professional critics. We work  for YOU - our neighbors in Hampton Roads.

"That was AWESOME!" - Grace Lewis, age 9,  after a Young Persons’ Concert