Mission Statement

The West Jordan Symphony exists for a two-fold purpose. For its members, it provides opportunities to perform and develop musical talent for players of all ages and abilities. As a group, it creates a venue for participation, education, and appreciation of the performing arts for the community through scheduled concerts and other events. Our belief is that much of music and the arts are what make us civilized people because they appeal to our better nature. The mission of this symphony is to be composed of musicians who have a great love of the fine arts.

Legacy of the West Jordan Symphony

The West Jordan Symphony was founded in 1984 by Dr. Marden Pond, originally as the West Jordan Community Orchestra. In its inaugural year, the group performed only Handel's Messiah, establishing a cherished tradition that has deep roots in the community. Over time, the orchestra evolved into the West Jordan Symphony, symbolizing its growth and commitment to a wider repertoire. In 1993, West Jordan City began sponsoring an annual Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along each December—a beloved event that continues to this day, drawing enthusiastic audiences who eagerly fill every seat year after year. This annual gathering has become a hallmark of the holiday season in West Jordan.

In 2003, with the growing participation of musicians from the community, the symphony officially transitioned into a full-time performing organization, allowing for a broader range of performances throughout the year, reflecting the diverse musical interests of the area.

Each fall, the West Jordan Symphony brings a sense of excitement to the season with thrilling performances, often featuring Halloween-themed music. December carries on the beloved holiday traditions, including the annual West Jordan City Holiday Concert and the Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along. In the spring, the symphony holds auditions for local talent to participate in its Solo & Ensemble Showcase, giving instrumentalists and small ensembles a chance to perform alongside the symphony. The season culminates with the Masterworks Concert, a tribute to classical masterpieces by composers such as Haydn, Dvořák, Beethoven, and many others. The symphony’s repertoire, which encompasses classical, pop, movie soundtracks, patriotic pieces, and more, spans a broad spectrum of genres.

Throughout the year, the West Jordan Symphony has delighted audiences with performances that feature symphonies and concertos for instruments such as flute, violin, viola, cello, trumpet, and bassoon. Audiences have enjoyed timeless works like Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, Romeo and Juliet, and waltzes from Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty. The symphony has also honored the music of composers like Strauss, Rimsky-Korsakov, Sibelius, Bach, Borodin, Sousa, Rachmaninoff, Brahms, and many more.

Since its founding by Dr. Pond, the West Jordan Symphony has been shaped by a legacy of dedicated musical leadership. While Dr. Pond laid the foundation, it is the vision and efforts of subsequent directors, including Don Findlay, Jenna Baumgard, Dana Bentley, Larry White, Shane Mickelsen, Denisse Vallecillos, and Robert Bott, that have built upon and expanded that legacy. Today, Brenden McCauley continues to uphold this tradition as the artistic director, with Trevor McFarland serving as the interim music director.

Looking toward the future, the West Jordan Symphony honors its past while continuing to foster a strong connection with the community. Its legacy of bringing high-quality music to the area remains as vibrant as ever, ensuring that the joy of music will inspire generations to come, as it continues to adapt and innovate in response to the community’s evolving musical landscape.

Join the West Jordan Symphony

Are you interested in contributing to our legacy? Whether you’re looking to perform, volunteer, or get involved in other ways, we would love to hear from you! Please visit our Join Us page or contact us at wjsymphony@gmail.com for more information on how you can be a part of the West Jordan Symphony. Your passion for music can help us continue our mission!