Explore More Illinois, RAILS’ online cultural and recreational pass program for Illinois libraries, welcomes its newest attraction, Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra in Ottawa!

This season we celebrate the diamond anniversary of the Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra, presenting a wealth of favorite classics and delightful new pieces. We are proud to showcase exceptional soloists and choirs who find their roots in the Illinois Valley. Since our first season in 1949-50, the Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra has been fulfilling its mission “to entertain and inspire the community by performing live orchestral music.” Led since 2019 by current music director and conductor Dr. Daniel Sommerville, we perform music from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary periods, and we regularly showcase talented local and international musicians. Annual traditions include a pops concert to open our season in September and our Young Performers Competition, held in January and performed in March. An abbreviated version of this program is also performed for students in area schools. Our December concerts alternate annually between The Nutcracker ballet featuring local ballet studios and a holiday concert filled with season favorites.

Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra is offering Buy one adult admission, get one free! Discount is applied to the 2024-2025 concert schedule.  

Please login to Explore More Illinois website for a list of current attractions. For more information, please email Jessica Barnes or call 630-734-5181.