The program, performed at the Tucson High School auditorium, featured 60 volunteer musicians from throughout the community (including co-founder Juliani on double bass).
The early concert programs were all-orchestral; on March 16, 1930, soprano Mary Margaret Fischer appeared as the orchestra's first soloist.
From 1939-1950, the TSO existed under the auspices of the university, sharing access to music, offering credit to students who performed with the orchestra, and financial support.
After a yearlong standoff (which included 19 musicians and the conductor walking out), a coup de grace was found with a performance by John Charles Thomas, the most famous baritone at the time.
The opening performance was led by Arthur Fiedler (who also participated in a parade on a fire truck as part of the festivities the following day).
The TSO celebrated its 50th anniversary in the 1978-79 season, which included a concert featuring 99 musicians conducted by Music Director Dr. George Trautwein.
Thanks in part to grant funding, the TSO performed in communities throughout Southern Arizona, including Ajo, Bisbee, and Nogales.
In 2003 the TSO Chorus was formed under the direction of Dr. Bruce Chamberlain, and continues to perform with the orchestra today for Handel's Messiah and other orchestral choral masterworks.
Under his artistic leadership, the TSO has expanded the quality and breadth of its programming, with a special focus on southern Arizona's cultural heritage.
The mission of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra is to engage, educate and transform our community through live musical experiences of the highest quality.