About Us

Now in its 79th season, the Main Line Symphony Orchestra (MLSO) was founded on the principles of cultural preservation, educational outreach, and democratic organization that have made community musical ensembles a rich part of the American experience. Rehearsing and performing in the Philadelphia western suburb of Wayne, Pennsylvania, the orchestra draws dedicated musicians of all ages who seek the challenge of performing both standard orchestral literature and new compositions.

Under the guidance of Music Director Don Liuzzi and Concertmaster Paul Roby, MLSO members have continued their long tradition of accompanying professional soloists, many of them from the Philadelphia Orchestra. This relationship between the orchestras only grows stronger as both Mr. Liuzzi and Mr. Roby have been members of the Philadelphia Orchestra for decades, as Principal Timpanist and Associate Principal Second Violin respectively.

Before Maestro Liuzzi accepted his position in 2014, the MLSO was led for 27 years by Philadelphia Orchestra bassist Henry Scott and violinist Yumi Scott, who set the standard for an exceptional orchestra committed to recruiting, welcoming, and mentoring players; serving the cultural needs of the community; and providing warm and engaging musical encounters.

Thanks largely to the work of Mr. Liuzzi, the orchestra has recently created two important opportunities: the James Dietz Memorial Young Artists Competition, an award that includes an invitation to perform a concerto with the orchestra, and the Bridging the Gap Fellowship, instituted in 2020 and intended to further diversity and inclusion by providing a modest stipend to qualified rising professionals. In this capacity, four fellows join the orchestra each year as they transition to professional careers.

We hope you will add your name to our mailing list. We look forward to seeing you at our next concert!

Photographs courtesy of Chris Swisher