About RMSO
“If your kids are dancing in the aisles at an RMSO Concert, we know one thing for sure: We're doing our job properly.”
The Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra brings world-class live orchestral music to smaller communities in the shadow of the Rockies, creating memorable experiences close to home.
The RMSO makes orchestral music accessible to communities in the county in several ways:
Relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere (no dress code, cabaret tables, convenient concert times)
Local talent and community involvement (e.g., Airdrie Rotary Festival for the Performing Arts)
Geographic reach
Affordability (tickets from $20+)
Diverse programming (everything from Mozart to Broadway)
Innovative venues and formats
MANDATE
To eliminate barriers of geography and cost to high-quality concerts in the smaller communities of Rocky View County.
VISION
Orchestral music is thriving in smaller communities in the shadow of the Rockies.
“We believe that culture is not exclusive to big cities. We think that folks who choose to live in small towns should still have access to a live symphony orchestra.”
MISSION
Engaging audiences through dynamic orchestral music delivered in unique ways and places.
Our Story: Bringing Orchestral Music Closer to Home
The Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra (RMSO) began in 2016, when a passionate group of musicians gathered in the basement of St. Dennis Catholic Church. Ambitious orchestral readings, shared meals, and a strong sense of community laid the foundation for what would become a thriving semi-professional orchestra.
Under the leadership of founder Dr. Kim Raffin, the RMSO was incorporated in 2017 with a bold vision: to engage audiences through dynamic orchestral music presented in unique ways and places.
Today, the RMSO is a thriving regional orchestra, presenting 10–12 family-friendly concerts each year and reaching more than 50,000 audience members. From Airdrie and Cochrane to Strathmore, Okotoks, High River, and beyond, we bring live orchestral music to communities across southern Alberta.
In recent years, the RMSO has evolved into a sustainable, community-based organization with multiple venues, diverse partnerships, stronger governance, and shared artistic leadership. Through it all, our purpose remains the same: to remove barriers of geography, cost, and convention so that outstanding orchestral music can be experienced close to home.
Affordable tickets, welcoming concerts, accessible local venues, and opportunities for emerging artists are at the heart of what we do.
Named Community Ensemble of the Year at the 2024 Calgary Music Awards, the RMSO is entering an exciting new chapter—building audiences, strengthening communities, and ensuring orchestral music thrives throughout Rocky View County and surrounding communities.
RMSO At-a-Glance
Over 90 concerts played in 18 unique venues since 2016
~1,500 tickets sold annually
10-12 family-friendly concerts per season; 50,000+ Audience members since its founding
~45 core musicians
10 volunteer Board Directors
Community of over 1,750 active participants including supporters, volunteers, and audience members
YYC Music Awards Community Ensemble of the Year 2024