Orchestra Lumos: A New Era of Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact

Orchestra Lumos, formerly known as Stamford Symphony, has been on a remarkable journey of transformation over the past several years. Under the visionary leadership of President and CEO Russell Jones and Music Director Michael Stern, the orchestra has redefined its mission, expanded its reach, and solidified its role as a cultural cornerstone of Fairfield County. The appointment of Michael Stern as Music Director at the start of the 2020/2021 season marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Stern, known for his dynamic interpretations of classical repertoire and dedication to contemporary music, has brought a fresh perspective to Orchestra Lumos. His tenure as Music Director of the Kansas City Symphony and his founding of the acclaimed IRIS Orchestra showcase his ability to elevate ensembles to new heights. Through artistic innovation, educational outreach, and deep community engagement, Orchestra Lumos is ensuring that world-class classical music remains vibrant, accessible, and inclusive.

A Commitment to Artistic Excellence

Orchestra Lumos has undergone transformational growth, exemplified by its 2022 rebranding and a slate of innovative programming. A shining example is the upcoming Our Common World concerts featuring legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma on May 24–25, 2025, at the Palace Theatre. These performances will bring one of the world’s most renowned musicians to local audiences, demonstrating the orchestra’s commitment to making exceptional classical music accessible to all.

Education: Inspiring the Next Generation

Through its Play, Sing, Listen! initiative, The Education Fund of Orchestra Lumos ensures that all young people in the community have access to high-quality music education. The program encourages students to explore, appreciate, perform, and create music while developing critical life skills such as creativity, listening, problem-solving, and self-confidence. By investing in education, Orchestra Lumos is fostering the next generation of musicians and music lovers.

Making Classical Music Accessible and Engaging

Orchestra Lumos is redefining how audiences experience classical music, making it fun and engaging for people of all ages. Innovative concerts, such as a live performance of the Toy Story soundtrack while screening the beloved Disney classic on March 30, 2025, at the Palace Theatre, exemplify this approach. Additionally, young musicians from INTEMPO are invited to perform alongside professional orchestra members, bridging generations and fostering a love for orchestral music in emerging talent.

A Cultural Hub for Fairfield County

Beyond the concert hall, Orchestra Lumos is deeply embedded in the Fairfield County community. The Small Space Series brings live classical music to intimate venues such as churches, museums, and libraries from Greenwich to Norwalk, ensuring that world-class performances reach a broad and diverse audience. The orchestra also actively collaborates with local organizations, supporting the work of INTEMPO, Project Music, and the Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestra to strengthen the region’s cultural ecosystem.

Celebrating Connecticut Orchestra Month

This March, Orchestra Lumos will join 28 other orchestras across the state in celebrating Connecticut Orchestra Month, a statewide initiative that highlights the joy and accessibility of live orchestral music. This collective effort showcases the vibrancy of Connecticut’s classical music scene and reinforces Orchestra Lumos’ mission of bringing music to as many people as possible.

A Journey Toward the Future

Orchestra Lumos’ journey is one of transformation, artistic excellence, and unwavering community commitment. With a bold vision for the future, the orchestra is not only preserving the beauty of classical music but also reimagining its role in a modern, inclusive, and dynamic cultural landscape. As they continue to innovate and inspire, Orchestra Lumos stands as a beacon of creativity and connection in Fairfield County.