May 17, 2022

The New Yorker magazine has published an article on the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, calling it one of the nation’s boldest orchestras.

Characterizing the symphony as “the musical pride of Sioux Falls,” the publication noted the orchestra’s $2.3 million budget, “which is microscopic by the standards of America’s leading orchestras,” and yet “nevertheless, the South Dakota Symphony is bolder and savvier in its programming than all but a handful of American ensembles,” New Yorker music critic Alex Ross wrote.

Delta David Gier, the orchestra’s music director, recently won Columbia University’s Ditson Conductor’s Award, which is the oldest award honoring conductors for their commitment to the performance of American music.

“The citation called Gier ‘the model of an engaged conductor.’ His group is the model of an engaged orchestra,” Ross wrote.

To read the story, click here. 

The symphony story also will be part of the magazine’s May 23 print edition.

The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra performs at the Washington Pavilion and through outreach statewide. It celebrated its centennial anniversary this season.