About Us
Years Of Experience
About Us
We Are "50" and Still Fantastic!
With five decades of artistic excellence, the Kokomo Symphony Orchestra (KSO) is thrilled to continue to perform another year, and we invite you to join us on this extraordinary musical journey.
The Kokomo Symphonic Society (KSS), a non-profit organization, proudly coordinates the KSO performances, bringing world-class productions to our vibrant community since 1973. We believe music is a universal language that transcends boundaries and enriches lives. At the heart of our mission is our commitment to creating an inclusive and culturally relevant community where everyone can experience the transformative power of music.
We are excited to present a captivating lineup of concerts, ranging from grand full symphony performances to intimate chamber concerts. Our goal is to curate musical programs that are not only entertaining but also informative and educational, offering a diverse range of musical experiences that cater to all tastes and interests.
Under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director and Conductor José Valencia, the KSO breathes life into each performance. José carefully prepares for each symphony program, ensuring our audiences a captivating and unforgettable experience. From seasoned professionals to rising stars, our talented musicians are handpicked for each performance, bringing their unique artistry to the stage.
The KSO takes great pride in our Youth Programs, which run from September to May. Led by the Director of the program, Sean Carey, and our Strings Instructor, Ellen Clark, these programs offer a valuable opportunity for students aged 9 through 19 to embark on an exciting journey of musical exploration. By joining our Youth Programs, students gain invaluable experience in playing and performing in group settings, honing their teamwork and communication skills. Visit our Youth Programs page for more information.
Team
Meet Our Conductor and Instructors!
José Valencia
Sean Carey
Originally from Pennsylvania, Ellen began playing the cello in third grade, discovering a passion for music that has shaped both her education and career. She began teaching during her junior and senior years of high school, working with elementary-aged students in her community. That passion for music education continued through college and beyond as she maintained teaching private cello lessons while living in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Conductor and violinist José Valencia has built a career around a simple conviction: orchestral music is most powerful when musicians and audiences feel genuinely connected to it.
Katie Huddleston’s musical journey began in Goshen, Indiana, where she discovered her love for the cello before transitioning to the captivating world of the string bass. As the first-ever String Bass major at Manchester University, she graduated in 2015 and embarked on a fulfilling career.