About Us

Music has the power to transform. It invites us to listen, to wonder, and to see one another in new ways. More than entertainment, music creates connection—bringing together people of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives in a shared artistic experience. Music is not simply a collection of separate traditions. It is an ongoing conversation among communities, and every voice enriches the whole.

That belief has guided the Idaho Falls Symphony for more than 75 years.

Our story began long before the Symphony itself. In 1912, a dedicated group of women formed the Idaho Falls Music Club to expand musical and cultural opportunities in a growing agricultural community. As Eastern Idaho evolved into a center of scientific innovation with the establishment of what is now Idaho National Laboratory, community leaders recognized that a thriving region also required a thriving cultural life. In 1949, the Idaho Falls Music Club and the Community Concerts Association joined together to establish what would become the Idaho Falls Symphony. The Symphony Society was formally incorporated in 1961, creating the organization that continues to serve our region today.

Throughout its history, the Symphony has been shaped by a distinguished succession of Music Directors, including Harold Mealy, LaMar Barrus, Carl Eberl, John LoPiccolo, Dr. George Adams, and others who established the artistic foundation upon which the orchestra continues to build. Following an extensive search in 2010, Dr. Thomas Heuser was named the Symphony's tenth Music Director. During his fifteen seasons of artistic leadership, the Idaho Falls Symphony experienced significant artistic growth, expanded educational opportunities, strengthened community partnerships, and further elevated its artistic reputation. In recognition of his lasting contributions, the Board of Directors named Dr. Heuser Conductor Laureate in 2026, honoring his enduring legacy and continued relationship with the Symphony.

As we enter an exciting new chapter in our history, we continue to build upon this rich artistic tradition while embracing new voices, fresh perspectives, and new possibilities. Our search for the Symphony's next Music Director reflects our commitment to artistic excellence and our belief that great music flourishes through collaboration, curiosity, and community. Our mission remains unchanged: to provide quality live orchestral experiences for the enjoyment, enrichment, and education of our audiences and musicians.

Today, the orchestra reflects the community it serves. Professional musicians perform alongside educators, engineers, healthcare professionals, business leaders, students, and many others who share a passion for orchestral music and a commitment to artistic excellence. This unique blend of talent has attracted musicians from throughout Eastern Idaho and neighboring states while preserving the Symphony's identity as a community orchestra performing at the highest artistic level.

Education and community engagement remain central to our work. Each year, thousands of children and families experience live orchestral music through Link Up, Symphony Ambassadors, family concerts, and the Idaho Falls Symphony Youth Orchestras. These programs inspire creativity, nurture future musicians, and ensure that the transformative power of music reaches communities throughout Eastern Idaho.

The Idaho Falls Symphony's administrative offices are located in the heart of historic downtown Idaho Falls, just around the corner from the Willard Arts Center, reflecting our longstanding commitment to the cultural vitality of our community.

The Idaho Falls Symphony exists because generations of musicians, audiences, volunteers, donors, educators, and community partners have believed that great music belongs to everyone. As we continue this ongoing conversation, we invite you to join us in shaping the next chapter of a tradition that enriches lives, strengthens our community, and reminds us that every voice has a place in the music.