Murray Symphony Orchestra

In February 1975, James E. Hill, who also served as president and conductor, organized the Holladay Pops Symphony Orchestra and Chorale. The original orchestra group consisted of about 30 members, from many walks of life and ranging in age from high school students to senior citizens. The chorale had 15 members and was conducted by James C. Peterson. Rehearsals were held at Churchill Jr. High on Wednesday evenings until June, at which time the orchestra moved to Murray High School. The administrators in the Murray School District were very eager to support such cultural activities; hence the school facilities and percussion instruments were made available to the orchestra.

In January of 1976, the founder of the original group resigned as conductor for personal reasons. Several other members withdrew at that time. The new conductor of the group was Richard W. Jackson, with Steve Baker as assistant conductor.

On March 17, 1976, the orchestra voted to change its name to Murray Symphony Orchestra in recognition of the support an encouragement extended to it by Murray City officials and residents. At present, the group consists of 75 musicians of varying degrees of musical accomplishment, who have a common love for good music and find enjoyment in performing the works of the masters.