How The Cultural Trust Impacts the Quad City Symphony Orchestra

One of the nation’s longest continuously operating orchestras, the Quad City Symphony Orchestra (QCSO) has brought exceptional symphonic music to the region for over a century. Guided by its vision to be where access meets inspiration, the QCSO presents more than 25 performances each season through its Masterworks, Pops, Films-in-Concert, and Chamber Music series, and deepens its impact through artistic and educational partnerships.

The QCSO is committed to serving the entire Quad Cities community with programs that prioritize access, inclusion, and lifelong learning. Each year, over 13,000 students of all ages engage with the QCSO through Youth Ensembles, the Private Lesson Program, Group Lesson Program, school visits, Students @ the Symphony, and Symphony Day—a tradition since 1988 that introduces more than 6,000 fourth- and fifth-grade students annually to a live orchestral performance.

Empowered by support from The Cultural Trust, the QCSO advances its vision to be where access meets inspiration. Through bold programming, educational outreach, and community-driven initiatives, the QCSO leads with purpose—ensuring that its impact is not only artistic but also transformative for individuals and the region as a whole.