Our History
The Livonia Symphony Orchestra was founded on June 4, 1973, as the Oakway Symphony to serve the people of Wayne and Oakland Counties. It was reincorporated under its present name, Livonia Symphony Orchestra, in 1988 to serve the residents of Livonia and surrounding communities. It is a nonprofit, 501c3 organization and tax exempt to the extent allowed by law.
The Livonia Symphony Orchestra has been a musical force in Southeast Michigan for 53 years. Performances and events throughout the year include talented musicians, an internationally respected conductor, special guest artists from around the world, a variety of programming from the classics to Broadway and the best of popular music.
The LSO has had only three music directors during its 50+ year history; the Founder Francesco Di Blasi, Maestro Volodymyr Shesiuk who retired in 2025 after 33 years with Orchestra and our newest Music Director/Conductor, Dr. Horst Buchholz, who joined the Orchestra in July of 2026. Carl Karoub served as the assistant conductor from the beginning of the orchestra until his retirement in 2019.
In addition to providing an excellent opportunity for talented musicians to perform, the LSO focuses on education for youth through its Musical Outreach Program. We provide new and refurbished instruments for students in the Livonia and Clarenceville upper elementary and middle schools to promote their love of music. Also, our musicians make classroom presentations of the various instruments that make up an orchestra to encourage interest in music.
Our Mission
The Mission of the LSO is three-fold:
* to serve the people of Livonia and surrounding communities
with musical enrichment and enjoyment;
* provide musical educational experiences for youth;
* provide professional growth opportunities for musicians
to enhance their artistic talents.
* to serve the people of Livonia and surrounding communities
with musical enrichment and enjoyment;
* provide musical educational experiences for youth;
* provide professional growth opportunities for musicians
to enhance their artistic talents.
Our Purpose
We believe music is the universal language that changes and enriches lives and
we are building a community through the love of music.
We believe music is the universal language that changes and enriches lives and
we are building a community through the love of music.
Our Core Values
Commitment to Excellence
Strong Relationships
Shared Passion
Fulfilling Experiences
Commitment to Excellence
Strong Relationships
Shared Passion
Fulfilling Experiences
