History of the BJSO

The Beloit Janesville Symphony Orchestra, has been the professional symphony orchestra of Rock County for 70 years. In addition to its series of classical and pops concerts, each year it performs Independence Day concerts in Janesville and Beloit, which are offered free to our audience. Beginning as a volunteer community orchestra in 1953 at Beloit College, it has grown into a respected regional orchestra in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. 

Founded by Lewis Dalvit in 1953, the BJSO baton was passed on to Dr. Crawford Gates in 1963 and, in 1999, to Dr. Robert Tomaro. Music Director Dr. Rob Tomaro is currently active in our school systems, bringing his original educational program “Conducting Kids” to area middle schools to support the BJSO's mission.
 
Mission:
To engage and enrich our community through the power and performance of live symphonic music.