Draft:Macomb Symphony Orchestra

The Macomb Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is an American orchestra based in Clinton Township, MI, and serves all of Macomb County, Michigan. Andrew Neer is the current Music Director and Conductor, conducting all performances. Thomas Cook was the orchestra's first conductor and serves as the current music director emeritus. The MSO performs primarily at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts, a 1200-seat performance venue in Clinton Township, MI.

Beginnings
In 1973, founder Thoams Cook recognized a growing need to bring orchestral music to the Macomb community. With public school systems already beginning to reduce the amount of orchestral music enrichment, he founded the Macomb Symphony. In the very early stages, it was connected with Macomb Community College and since 1974 has operated as a nonprofit serving all of Macomb County, MI. Under the direction of Thomas Cook, the orchestra developed and nurtured relationships with the Macomb Ballet Company and other local organizations.

During the pandemic, in the summer of 2020, the MSO organized several outdoor concerts initiated by Dave Zidel (longtime MSO trombonist). This has since grown into a relationship with the local metropolitan park systems, and the orchestra performs regularly during the summer at the Metro Beach and various parks throughout Macomb County.

Current
Following a search during the 2021-22 season, the MSO announced the selection of Andrew Lee Neer as the successor to Thomas Cook. Neer is the second music director in the orchestra's history. The orchestra provides up to six concerts per season to include family-centered performances, orchestral performances , outdoor concerts, and at least one youth engagement performance. In the 2023-24 season, the MSO began an Artist in Residence program to foster new and upcoming performers.

Under the direction of Andrew Neer, the orchestra has continued to work with community partners such as Macomb Ballet Company and foster new relationships with Oakland Choral Society (Bloomfield Hills, MI) and Shelby Township local artists such as Jonathan Lasch and Marina Stojanovska.

Music Directors
Thomas Cook, conductor (1974 - 2022)

Andrew Lee Neer (2022 - Current)