News
Rhapsody is Coming
Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue takes center stage on May 31, as pianist Rolf Bertsch joins RMSO for a dynamic performance blending classical music with the energy and rhythms of jazz.
RMSO Congratulates Concertmaster Anna Gonzalez
The Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra congratulates Concertmaster Anna Gonzalez on the successful completion of her Junior Recital in the University of Calgary’s Bachelor of Music program, recognizing her dedication, artistry, and leadership within RMSO.
Strings Attached Is Heating Up—Over 200 Tickets Sold!
Strings Attached: Rock Choir Meets Symphonic Sound is building momentum, with tickets already moving quickly. Featuring hits from Elvis, U2, ABBA, and Elton John performed by orchestra, band, and choir, this concert promises a bold and energetic night of live music.
Meet the Conductor Behind Strings Attached
Maria Fuller, one of Canada’s most dynamic young conductors, leads Strings Attached: Rock Choir Meets Symphonic Sound, bringing together rock choir energy and full symphonic power for an exciting, welcoming live music experience.
Sounds Like Alberta Brings Community, Creativity, and Music Together
Music, art, and community came together at RMSO’s Sounds Like Alberta, where Alberta-inspired compositions, Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, youth volunteers, and a live visual artist created a memorable concert experience.
Featured Artist: Virginia Sparvier-Wells
Alberta-based Cree, multi-disciplinary artist Virginia Jessica Sparvier-Wells brings her land-rooted, interdisciplinary artistry to the RMSO stage. Blending classical training with Indigenous language, movement, and soundscape, her work invites audiences to experience the land as a living presence shaping memory, identity, and belonging.
Strengthening RMSO Leadership: New Concertmaster and Principal Cellist
As the RMSO’s 10th Anniversary Season continues, we are proud to welcome two outstanding musicians into key leadership roles within the orchestra: Concertmaster Ana González and Principal Cellist Brenna Le May.
Hats Off to Our Airdrie 1st Club Volunteers!
A huge thank-you to the Airdrie 1st Club volunteers who contributed their time and talent during our Carmina Burana performance at Vivo. Their warm presence and willingness to help created a welcoming experience for all. The RMSO is thrilled to continue this valued collaboration.
Rising Stars Shine at Carmina Burana Live at Vivo
Three outstanding young pianists — Kathy Pham, Derek Lee, and Hannah Hodjati — delivered beautiful and expressive performances during Carmina Burana Live at Vivo. Their participation reflects the RMSO’s ongoing commitment to supporting emerging musicians and celebrating the next generation of artistic talent.
Radina Gubeva Named Inaugural Recipient of the Kim Raffin Award for Artistic Leadership
The Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra is proud to announce Radina Gubeva, Acting Concertmaster, as the inaugural recipient of the Kim Raffin Award for Artistic Leadership. This award recognizes Radina’s outstanding artistry, leadership, and dedication to the RMSO’s mission.
Help RMSO Bring More Music to Alberta’s Small Communities!
We’re thrilled to share that the RMSO’s project “Sounds Like Alberta” has been accepted into the Field Law Community Fund Program! Public voting decides who receives funding — please take a moment to vote for RMSO and help us continue taking music to the smaller communities in Alberta.
Auditions Announcement: Concertmaster, Principal Cello
The Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra is holding auditions for Concertmaster and Principal Cello positions this fall. Auditions will take place November 22 & 23, 2025, with applications due by October 30.
New Stages, New Experiences: RMSO Expands to Vivo & Rockpointe
The Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra is expanding into new venues—Vivo Indoor Park and Rockpointe Church Bearspaw. These inspiring spaces bring symphonic music to new communities, offering audiences unforgettable performances in welcoming, accessible settings that reflect RMSO’s mission of inclusivity and connection.
RMSO Welcomes New Executive Director, Nelda Schulte
The Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra proudly welcomes Nelda Schulte as its new Executive Director. A seasoned arts leader with over 20 years’ experience, Nelda brings vision, innovation, and a passion for community engagement as RMSO enters its 10th anniversary season.
Strauss Meets Star Wars – RMSO Season 10 Opens!
The RMSO opens its 10th Anniversary Season with Strauss Wars: The Waltz Strikes Back. Guest conductor Gareth Jones leads a thrilling program blending timeless waltzes and epic film scores—an unforgettable night of tradition, imagination, and cinematic sound.
Nurturing the Next Generation: RMSO’s Commitment to Young Artists in Alberta
The RMSO is proud to support Alberta’s emerging musicians through mentorship, performance opportunities, and the Young Artist Award. In partnership with local festivals, we help young artists develop their craft and gain invaluable experience. Learn how we’re fostering the next generation of musical talent.
Honoring Excellence in the Arts: RMSO Celebrates Winners at the 2025 Mayor’s Night of the Arts
The 2025 Mayor’s Night of the Arts celebrated Airdrie’s thriving arts community, and the RMSO is proud to honor two of our own. Congratulations to Kim Raffin and Carlos Foggin for their well-deserved awards! Their dedication and passion continue to inspire and enrich the cultural landscape of our region.
RMSO Founder Kim Raffin Nominated for Prestigious Patron of the Arts Award
We are thrilled to announce that our founding President and Board Chair, Kim Raffin, has been nominated for the Mayor's Night of the Arts 2025 - Patron of the Arts Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals or businesses that have significantly enhanced the arts community through philanthropy, volunteerism, and advocacy.
Celebrating Excellence: RMSO Named Community Ensemble of the Year 2024
After an incredible opening weekend, we’re excited to share that the Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra kicked off the 2024/25 season with an unforgettable Symphonic Legends performance and was awarded the 2024 YYC Music Award for Community Ensemble of the Year!
CommunityVotes Airdrie 2023
CommunityVotes Airdrie 2023
The RMSO was nominated in 10 Categories!
Platinum – Theatre, Platinum – Entertainer , Platinum – Local Band, Platinum – Wedding Entertainment