"The Connecticut Symphony Orchestra (CSO), formally the Connecticut Valley Symphony Orchestra, is the state's oldest, premiere community orchestra. Now entering its 96th season, the CSO consists of over 60 advanced musicians and emerging professionals from 30+ Connecticut towns, ranging in age from 20 to 80 years old, representing a broad spectrum of occupations and diverse cultural backgrounds. The orchestra is led by conductor Paul McShee, a disciple of Marin Alsop.  Connecticut Symphony Orchestra's concerts are open to the public with an audience composed not only of residents from Hartford and the surrounding towns, but from throughout the state of Connecticut. The concert series regularly includes local professional artists as guest soloists, and includes world premieres of new works by up-and-coming young composers in addition to beloved classics. Our mission is to provide opportunities for advanced musicians and emerging professionals to perform a high level of repertoire while engaging and collaborating with diverse communities in mutual growth through the joy of making music."