What Makes Us
The Boston Civic Symphony
History
Founded in 1924 by the late educator, conductor, and composer Joseph Wagner, the Boston Civic Symphony is the second oldest symphony orchestra in the city. As one of Boston’s most respected musical organizations, the Civic has distinguished itself from other local musical groups through its focus on engaging exceptionally skilled student and amateur performers, and through its emphasis on developing a broad-based audience.
The Civic’s presentation of works by masters like Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms is balanced by its performances of pieces by contemporary American composers. Most concerts are held at New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall.
For thirty-eight years, Max Hobart, former assistant concertmaster of the BSO, led the orchestra – one of the longest tenures for any symphony orchestra conductor in history. After a two-year, worldwide search, Francisco Noya became the new music director in 2017.
Our Mission
To provide a high-quality orchestral and educational experience for both talented amateur musicians and conservatory students preparing for careers in music.
To present outstanding performances of standard and lesser-known orchestral repertoire as well as contemporary works from composers of diverse and traditionally marginalized backgrounds.
To contribute to the musical culture of greater Boston with a commitment to: expand accessibility through affordable ticket pricing and free livestreams; collaborate with local schools, students, and music groups; and feature both promising young artists as well as established soloists, conductors, and composers.
our staff
Music Director
Francisco Noya
MusicDirector@BostonCivicSymphony.org
Music Director Emeritus
Max Hobart
Executive Director
Tom Engeln
Executive@BostonCivicSymphony.org
Box Office Manager
Tickets@BostonCivicSymphony.org
Librarian
Librarian@BostonCivicSymphony.org
Associate Conductor
Ken Yanagisawa
Board of Directors
Jan Steenbrugge, President
John Oliver, Vice President
Debra Minard, Treasurer
Treasurer@BostonCivicSymphony.org
Jeremy Gershonowitz
Richard Horn
Charles Kawada, M.D.
Meghan Titzer