Irving Symphony Orchestra

Here’s a history and overview of the Irving Symphony Orchestra (ISO) in Irving, Texas:

Origins & Early Years

• The ensemble began as the Irving String Ensemble, formed by a small group of volunteer musicians at what was then University of Dallas. Irving Symphony Orchestra+2AARP Local+2

• In 1961 the “ISO Association” was formally organized. Irving Symphony Orchestra+1

• The first official concert was held on December 10, 1962, at Irving High School, with 23 volunteer musicians. Irving Symphony Orchestra

• By 1963 the orchestra had become a significant music group in Irving. Irving Symphony Orchestra+1

Growth & Transition

• In 1967 the orchestra held its first benefit ball (the “Irving Symphony Benefit Ball”) which became a major annual event for several years. Irving Symphony Orchestra

• The organization of the Irving Symphony League in 1970 provided volunteer and fundraising support. Irving Symphony Orchestra+1

• In 1988, ISO’s board decided to move the orchestra from being a purely community/volunteer ensemble toward being a “full-fledged professional symphony association,” employing paid musicians with degrees from recognized conservatories. Irving Symphony Orchestra+1

Professional Era & Leadership

• In 1991, Héctor Guzmán became Music Director/Conductor of ISO, raising its profile among regional orchestras. Irving Symphony Orchestra

• Over the years the orchestra developed a six-concert subscription season plus educational and outreach concerts for youth and families. Irving Symphony Orchestra+1

Community Outreach & Education

• ISO runs several key programs:

  • Concerts4Kids!: a series began in 1989, providing free or low-cost concerts for schoolchildren. Irving Symphony Orchestra

  • Ovation Program: high-school students assist as volunteers for concerts, earning service hours. Irving Symphony Orchestra

  • Healing Notes: performances in healthcare settings to enrich patient and staff experience. Irving Symphony Orchestra

• ISO has also committed to inclusion, equity and outreach, seeking to represent diverse backgrounds in its programming and musicians. Irving Symphony Orchestra

Relationship with Other Orchestras in Irving

• The city of Irving is home to more than one professional orchestra. According to reporting, ISO faced internal budget/artistic disagreements, which resulted in a founder of another orchestra, Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra, splitting off in 1991. Symphony

• Despite this history, ISO continues operating alongside other arts organizations, contributing to the rich cultural scene in Irving.

Present Day & Legacy

• ISO is headquartered at 225 E John Carpenter Freeway, Suite 120, Irving, TX 75062. MapQuest

• The 2025-2026 season is marked as ISO’s 63rd season (counting from the first concert in 1962). Irving Symphony Orchestra+1

• Read more

The season features a broad range of programming—from classical masterpieces to popular “pops” concerts, guest soloists, and multimedia events. Irving Symphony Orchestra+1

Key Milestones Summary

• 1961: ISO Association formed.

• 1962: First official concert (Dec 10).

• 1967: First benefit ball.

• 1970: Symphony League formed.

• 1988: Board decision to become fully professional.

• 1991: Héctor Guzmán becomes Music Director.

• 1989 onwards: Concerts4Kids and other outreach programs.

• 2025: Celebrating 63rd season.