Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra


The Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra is a professional orchestra begun in 1965, located in Lexington, KY, USA. It is also known as LPO, LexPhil, Lexington Philharmonic, and the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra Society. Most of the concerts for the 2016–2017 season were scheduled at the Singletary Center for the Arts on the campus of the University of Kentucky. Funding in 2016 came from individual donors; corporate support; individual ticket sales; and grant awards, especially from LexArts and the Kentucky Arts Council. In 2016, there was a collective bargaining agreement with the musician's union.

History

The Lexington Philharmonic Society was incorporated as a non-profit in 1961. Also described as the Central Kentucky Philharmonic Society, it was then a volunteer organization led by Robert King. By 1965, the organization was described as the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra Society, and was a professional orchestra led by Leo Scheer. 1971 began the 38-year directorship of George Zack. Beginning in 2009, and as of 2018, the director is Scott Terrell.
As of 2016, "LexPhil provides over 100 concerts, education and community programs every year, engaging communities across the region and reaching thousands of students in schools." Educational programs include "Instrument Petting Zoos".