The Acadiana Symphony Orchestra and Conservatory of Music is a unique music organization. The ASO Conservatory of Music is one of only a few in the United States that is associated with a symphony orchestra. The organization occupies a building purchased by our founding supporters, and is located in Lafayette, Louisiana. The name "Acadiana" came from people who settled the area centuries ago. Orig
inally from France, but later exiled from Nova Scotia in 1755, the Acadians settled in Southwest Louisiana, and a distinct culture and dialect known as "Cajun" French was born. The culture thrives today in literature, poetry, fine arts, music and culinary traditions. ASO is one of only a small number of symphony orchestras in U.S. In addition, the orchestra is one of only 3 in the U.S. that is associated with a Conservatory of Music. This unique partnership sets ASO apart from other symphony organizations in the country. ASO has a dedicated Board of Directors, a Women’s League of volunteers and a talented administrative staff. The ASO Conservatory has a highly qualified faculty of 27 teachers with advanced degrees from Rice University, Eastman School of Music, Oberlin College and Conservatory, Louisiana State University, and the University of Louisiana. The symphony orchestra consists of over 70 professional musicians from 14 countries with advanced degrees from universities around the United States and abroad. The mission of the ASO and its conservatory is unified in order to achieve a cohesive approach in the development of high quality performances and educational programs.
