The Downey Symphonic Society, Inc. was founded in 1948 by a group of public-spirited citizens, in order to bring good symphonic music to the Greater Downey Community.  The first concert was presented in 1957 at the Avenue Theater, on Downey Avenue, sponsored by the Rotary Club.  The Downey Symphonic Society is governed by a volunteer board of directors.  In 1961, the society received tax-exempt status, so that all donations are deductible.

The Downey Symphony presents three subscription concerts in the Downey Theater in October, January and April.  In addition, the Symphony presents a free "Pops in the Park" concert each August at Downey's Furman Park.  

The Symphony also producess the "Music in the Schools" program which reaches nearly 22,500 students of elementary and middle school age in the Downey School District.  Our principal bassist, Mark Artusio, leads a quintet of musicians (each representing one of the five major instrument groups - the strings, the percussion, the brass, woodwinds and basses) and they introduce themselves to the children.  

This year's program will highlight the musical concept of STYLE IN MUSIC, featuring music from different historical periods and countries as well as of contrasting musical types.  The Quintet's visits to the elementary schools are the core of our Downey Symphony's educational outreach program.  The program has earned the accolades of our schoolteachers and administrators and the fascination and gratitude of our school children over the past ten years.

Nick Frankart, President

Larry Lewis, Vice President
Ruth Hillecke, Secretary

William Hare, Treasurer
Mark Artusio

Gloria Crum
Pat Gil
Robert Goldstein
Carol Kearns
Della Keipp
John Keipp
Karol Morrison

Gabriel Orozco
Lorine Parks

Joyce Sherwin

Mary Stevens
Harold Tseklenis

The Symphony enjoys the support of a very enthusiastic and active Guild of well over 200 members, which puts on a variety of events that make it the Downey Symphony's fund-raiser and support group.

Joshua Roach

Mark Artusio