The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra has been an artistic cornerstone of Rochester since its founding in 1922 by Kodak founder and philanthropist George Eastman … who envisioned an orchestra that would invest in its community and develop Rochester into “a truly musical city.”
In the century since its first performance in 1923, the orchestra has achieved global recognition, recorded its own discography, and in 2020 won a Grammy Award for Best Classical Contemporary Composition. The RPO presents about 150 concerts and broadcasts each year, serving up to 170,000 audience members through ticketed events, education and community engagement activities, as well concerts in schools and community centers throughout the region.
Fulfilling George Eastman’s mission that all Rochester residents should experience musical learning throughout their lives, the RPO became one of the first orchestras in the country to place an emphasis lifelong musical engagement for the entire community. In 1970 the orchestra expanded to provide educational opportunities to local students in grades 8 through 12, creating the celebrated Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.
The RPO named Andreas Delfs music director in 2021 and Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik is now in his 31st season with the RPO, where he has earned during his tenure a national reputation for excellence in pops programming. The RPO will perform at the induction ceremony.