Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra
Engaging and enriching Western Colorado through symphonic, pops,
chamber, classical, jazz, and choral music for over 43 years.
Now finishing its 44th season, the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra (GJSO) is the largest professional orchestral organization between Denver and Salt Lake City and the largest arts organization in the Grand Valley, A cornerstone of musical arts and education within the Western Colorado communities, the GJSO prides itself on creating greater opportunities for local impact through high-quality performances and educational programs. Concertgoers and students alike are able to experience music with the GJSO that has the ability to unite and connect us to the depths of our humanity. Concerts and events include music for all ages, including classical, pops (short for popular music including show tunes and film music), jazz, chamber, opera, and choral performances.
While the Avalon Theatre in Grand Junction, Colorado is currently considered to be home for Season Ticket performances, the symphony orchestra is parent organization to groups such as: the GJSO Chamber Players; the Grand Valley Children’s Choir; the Western Colorado Chorale; the Sinners and Saints, a chamber acoustic ensemble; and the Western Colorado Jazz Orchestra.
For those unfamiliar with professional orchestral music, the GJSO helps guide concertgoers to ensure an enjoyable and stress-free experience. The Conductor’s Club is a pre-classics-concert party which offers an opportunity for concertgoers to better understand important classical music, enjoy refreshments from Carlson’s Tasting Room on Main Street in Grand Junction, Colorado, and socialize with members from around the Western Colorado community. Knowing about classical music is simply not a requirement to enjoy and appreciate the music and musicians. Chances are, you will recognize some of the music from movies, tv shows, and even commercials!
Under the musical direction of Dr. Charles Latshaw, the GJSO is composed of department professors at Colorado Mesa University, teachers in District 51, young musicians on the rise, prominent members of the community, musicians who have played with the GJSO since its formation in 1978, and guest artists who are known around the world! Dr. Latshaw was named music director in April 2016, and has just signed on to 3 additional years with the organization. He previously served as the director of the Kent/Blossom Music Festival and the Kent State University Orchestras, artistic director and conductor of the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra in Indiana.
Latshaw is firmly dedicated to bringing orchestral music to new audiences, especially young people. He has taught band, choir, general music, and musical theater to students of all ages. He has served as faculty for summer music programs, including the Rocky Ridge Music Center, Columbus Indiana Philharmonic Strings Camp, and Palace Theatre summer programs. He has led “Side by Side” concerts for high school students with the Indianapolis Symphony, Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, and the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra. An enthusiastic advocate of new music, Latshaw enjoys programming accessible and exciting contemporary works, often of his own commission. He has premiered more than thirty new works for ensembles ranging from chamber groups to youth orchestras to full symphonies.