Orchestra of Southern Utah, Cedar City

An orchestra has existed as a part of Southern Utah University (SUU) since its founding in 1897.

In the early days of the small community, the hardships of everyday life were made more bearable through the use of dance, drama and music. This desire for music, dance and drama persisted through to the modern day. The current Orchestra of Southern Utah (OSU) is a semi-professional ensemble of dedicated professional and amateur musicians drawing its membership from throughout the Iron County area.

In the past, music was an essential religious and social force for the immigrants who chose to make Cedar City, Utah their new home. Holidays, weddings, and other special occasions included a variety of musical presentations and dancing. Music remains an integral part of the community to this day.

As in the past when Sunday evening concerts in the park or in the winter in the tabernacle brought everyone in the community together, so too today does the enjoyment of music act as a solidifying factor in Cedar City. The tradition of having a community musical organization has continued through the twentieth century and has evolved more fully.

The current Orchestra of Southern Utah (OSU) provides classical and popular musical performances and sponsors a Fall Recital Series. Composed of semi-professional and amateur musicians throughout Iron County, the OSU accompanies the annual "Messiah" production, in addition to a Children's Carnival, and Fall, Winter, and Spring concerts each season.

Originally sponsored by Southern Utah University, the Orchestra of Southern Utah became an independent, non-profit organization in 1996. OSU has a permanent home in Cedar City's grand new venue – the Heritage Center in historic downtown. OSU is one of the constituent organizations, which perform regularly in this beautiful facility, and has an agreement with the city providing for storage of its extensive music library, percussion instruments, music stands, and Baldwin grand piano.

When visiting Cedar City, if possible, include a night with the Orchestra of Southern Utah.

For schedules, tickets and information, visit the Orchestra of Southern Utah website.