The Astoria Music Society is a true cultural gem of Astoria. Founded in 2002, Astoria Music Society is "dedicated to the musical enrichment of western Queens," and has brought great classical music - some old, some very new - to the ears and venues of Astoria.
The story goes that in 2002, Music Director Silas Huff returned to Astoria from Europe and noticed all sorts of musicians with their instruments on the subway... traveling away from Astoria to gigs in Manhattan. He saw a need for classical music in Astoria - and a chance to give local musicians a venue in their own neighborhood - so he started the Astoria Music Society.
The Society exists primarily in the form of the Astoria Symphony. This professional orchestra, consisting of musicians from the five boroughs and beyond, performs traditional classical music and new music. Dedicated to exploring and promoting new music, they have commissioned new pieces by a number of living classical composers. Astoria Symphony also performs with the Astoria Symphonic Choir, presenting large scale works for orchestra and chorus, such as Handel's Messiah and Haydn's Lord Nelson Mass.
The Symphony also performs concerts for children and special occasions.
In addition to the Astoria Symphony, the Astoria Music Society is home to the Lost Dog Music Ensemble, a quintet of musicians that performs works from the 20th and 21st centuries, often working with New York City composers. They have presented a number of U.S., East Coast, and world premieres, and commission new works.
The Astoria Symphony is in residence at the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, located on 36th Avenue and 35th Street. This performing arts high school boasts an excellent performance hall. Ticket prices are extremely reasonable, and season passes are available, making the cost of each concert even lower. The Astoria Music Society is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, which means any donations you make are tax-deductible.
So whether you're looking for an earful of the classics, new sounds to intrigue you, or just an opportunity to belt out the Hallelujah Chorus during the holidays, look no further than the Astoria Music Society.
Astoria Music Society
http://www.astoriamusic.org
astoriasymphony@gmail.com