Jacksonville State University Community Orchestra

In its 14th season, the Jacksonville State University/Community Orchestra is a unique example of a collaborative effort between a university and its community.  Founded in 1994 by Dr. Victor Vallo, the ensemble's first conductor, the JSUCO was originally a string orchestra designed to provide a performing outlet to JSU students and members of the community who played orchestral string instruments.  Since its inception, the ensemble has grown into a full orchestra, with wind, brass, percussion, and now some string players coming from the students in the Walters Department of Music at JSU, and the balance of the string section being made up of community members from throughout Northeast and Central Alabama.  The ensemble is under the direction of Michael R. Gagliardo, who is entering his 9th season as Music Director and Conductor.  The orchestra performs at least two concerts of classical and popular orchestra repertoire each season.