In its 2006-2007 season, the Bryn Athyn Orchestra marked its 80th year of performing classical and popular music for the community in and around Bryn Athyn. From its beginning in 1926, and for its first ten years, the orchestra was just a loose coalition of musicians who performed under the direction of Frank Bostock. In 1936, the orchestra was integrated into a non-profit association. Through the years, nearly 250 musicians have played in the orchestra; one of the original members was Raymond Pitcairn.

The orchestra represents a meeting of the generations; for example, at its May 2002 mother's day concert, the oldest member was 86 years old, and the youngest 12. One member, Peter Gyllenhaal, began playing for the orchestra when he was in high school. Now in his 80's, Gyllenhaal has been with the orchestra more than 56 years.

In its early years, almost all of the orchestra members lived in Bryn Athyn. This is no longer the case. Today, about half its members come from other areas; some are professionals enlisted to fill in needed positions. One such professional, Daniel Kujala, was hired to play the cello more than eight years ago. Kujala now conducts the orchestra. Prior to coming to Bryn Athyn, Kujala, a native of Chicago, served as principal cellist for the Cedar Rapids Symphony. Locally, Kujala performed as a soloist with the Ambler Symphony and the Orchestra Society of Philadelphia. His first appearance as conductor for the orchestra was on Mothers Day 2002. "He's a strong conductor," says Bob Zecher, president of the Bryn Athyn Orchestra association. "He knows what he wants and can communicate it to the musicians."

Today, the orchestra boasts of over 40 regular members, including students, and performs at the beautiful Mitchell Performing Arts Center in Bryn Athyn.

Adapted from Joe Harrington's article in the May 6, 2002 issue of "The Globe"

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