Delaware Symphony Orchestra

The Delaware Symphony Orchestra developed from Wilmington’s early twentieth-century orchestral societies. The Wilmington Symphony Club was formed in 1912, and its later incarnation, the Symphony Club of Wilmington, gradually moved from amateur participation towards professional performance. Under Van Lier Lanning, appointed in 1955, the ensemble expanded and lengthened its season; it adopted the name Delaware Symphony Orchestra in 1971. Stephen Gunzenhauser’s tenure from 1979 brought further professional development and international touring. David Amado became music director in 2003 and music director laureate in 2023. Full-orchestra concerts, chamber programmes, family events and educational activity connect its regional history with its continuing public role.