About Us
Inspiring the Next Generation of Classical Musicians
Symphony in C is one of the nation's premier professional training orchestras, providing emerging musicians, conductors, and composers with the experience, mentorship, and performance opportunities needed to build successful careers in classical music.
Based in Camden, New Jersey, Symphony in C connects talented young artists with professional level orchestral performances, educational outreach programs, and meaningful community engagement throughout South Jersey and the Greater Philadelphia region.
For more than 70 years, Symphony in C has helped shape the future of classical music while making live orchestral performances accessible to audiences of all ages.
Our Mission
Symphony in C empowers the next generation of musicians, conductors, and composers through exceptional performance experiences, professional development, and community engagement.
Our mission is to prepare emerging artists for successful careers in today's evolving classical music landscape while enriching our communities through inspiring live performances and innovative educational programs.
What Makes Symphony in C Unique?
Symphony in C is one of only three professional training orchestras in the United States, offering a rare bridge between conservatory education and professional performance careers.
Musicians perform alongside accomplished conductors, collaborate with renowned guest artists, participate in educational outreach, and gain real world orchestral experience before advancing to major orchestras around the world.
Our programs include:
- Professional orchestral performance opportunities
- Mentorship from accomplished conductors and musicians
- Young Composers Competition
- Educational outreach for schools and community organizations
- Professional development for emerging artists
- Community concerts throughout South Jersey
Our History
Founded in 1952 as the Haddonfield Symphony, Symphony in C began as a community orchestra created to bring exceptional classical music performances to audiences throughout South Jersey. The orchestra presented its first concert in January 1954 under the direction of Guido Terranova.
As the organization grew, so did its mission. What began as a community orchestra evolved into one of America's leading professional training orchestras, helping launch the careers of countless musicians, conductors, and composers.
A major milestone came during the 1987 to 1988 season with the creation of the Professional Development Internship Program, providing emerging musicians with advanced training and professional performance experience. In 1991, the orchestra added an assistant conductor position, and in 1992 Alan Gilbert became Music Director. During this period, Symphony in C established its Composer in Residence program and introduced the Young Composers Competition.
Music Director Daniel Hege expanded the orchestra's educational initiatives between 1997 and 2000, strengthening the Music Matters! outreach program and creating additional opportunities for young artists.
From 2000 through 2015, Music Director Rossen Milanov elevated Symphony in C's national reputation, attracting exceptional musicians, acclaimed soloists, and broader audiences while further strengthening its artistic excellence.
In 2015, Stilian Kirov became Music Director, leading memorable performances including collaborations featuring the historic Wanamaker Organ and celebrating significant cultural milestones throughout the region.
Following a nationwide search delayed by the pandemic, Noam Aviel became Music Director in 2023, ushering in a new era focused on artistic innovation, education, and community connection.
Today, Symphony in C continues to inspire audiences while preparing the next generation of professional classical musicians.
Awards and Milestones
1952
Founded as the Haddonfield Symphony, serving audiences throughout South Jersey.
1987
Launched the Professional Development Internship Program to prepare emerging orchestral musicians for professional careers.
1992
Appointed Alan Gilbert as Music Director and established the Young Composers Competition along with the Composer in Residence program.
2004
Received the prestigious MetLife Award for Community Engagement in recognition of programs serving individuals with special needs.
2006
Relocated its concert series to the Gordon Theater at Rutgers University Camden and officially became Symphony in C, reflecting its growing commitment to Camden and the surrounding region.
Today
Symphony in C remains one of the nation's leading professional training orchestras, serving audiences through concerts, arts education, community outreach, and professional development programs for the next generation of classical musicians.