Recognition honours 107 years of artistic excellence, community impact, and cultural leadership.
VANCOUVER, BC — The City of Vancouver has officially proclaimed May 30 as “VSO Day,” recognizing the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s extraordinary contribution to the cultural life of the city over the past 107 years.
The proclamation was presented by Deputy Mayor Sarah Kirby-Yung on behalf of Mayor Ken Sim and Vancouver City Council during a sold-out performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 at the Orpheum, marking the conclusion of the VSO’s 107th main season.
The proclamation recognizes the VSO’s enduring role as one of Vancouver’s most significant cultural institutions, citing its contribution to the city’s artistic vitality, community engagement, international profile, and quality of life.
For more than a century, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra has served as a gathering place where residents from all backgrounds come together through the shared experience of music. Today, the organization reaches hundreds of thousands of people annually through concerts, educational programs, community initiatives, and free public performances throughout the region.
“We are deeply honoured by this recognition from the City of Vancouver,” said Angela Elster, President & CEO of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. “This proclamation celebrates not only the orchestra, but also the generations of musicians, audiences, donors, volunteers, board members, and staff who have helped build and sustain this remarkable institution. The VSO belongs to the community, and we are proud to play a role in the cultural life of our city.”
The City’s proclamation highlights several recent milestones, including the VSO’s first-ever European tour, which showcased Vancouver on the international stage through performances in five countries. It also recognizes the orchestra’s annual Day of Music celebration, which welcomed more than 30,000 audience members to 70 free performances across 14 stages throughout Vancouver, as well as the VSO’s continued partnership with the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation through Symphony at Sunset.
Music Director Otto Tausk noted that the honour reflects the unique relationship between the orchestra and the city it serves.
“An orchestra is more than a performing arts organization,” said Tausk. “It reflects the aspirations, creativity, and spirit of its community. We are grateful to the people of Vancouver for their support and inspired by the role music continues to play in bringing people together.”
The proclamation comes at a moment of strong momentum for the organization. The sold-out performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 3, one of the largest and most ambitious works in the orchestral repertoire, brought together the full forces of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, guest artists, and community partners for a powerful season finale.
As Vancouver continues to grow as a global city, the proclamation recognizes the essential role that arts and culture play in creating vibrant communities, fostering connection, attracting talent, and enhancing quality of life.
Media Contact & Interview Requests
Interviews are available with Angela Elster (President & CEO) and Maestro Otto Tausk (VSO Music Director) upon request.
To arrange an interview, please contact:
Adrian Fung
Senior Vice President, Artistic & Marketing
Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
adrian.fung@vancouversymphony.ca
