BEGINNINGS
Our original orchestra was known as the Troy Community Orchestra (TCO) and functioned between December 1982 and May 1994. After the TCO disbanded, violinist Paula Savaglio sought to find a new Director and a place to hold rehearsals. Her perseverance eventually led her to the Royal Oak Neighborhood Schools, where she met Mr. Peter Tolias of Kimball High School, who became the director/conductor of the orchestra. The first rehearsal was held in September of 1995. The membership of the orchestra is comprised of residents from Royal Oak and surrounding communities. Our group members come from a variety of professions, and greatly enjoy playing and bringing music to the Royal Oak area. We are celebrating our 13th year in the Royal Oak area.

MUSIC DIRECTOR/CONDUCTOR
This year, John Robertson and Doug Bianchi will each conduct two concerts, and all of our concerts will take place at the acoustically excellent Royal Oak Middle School (formerly Dondero High) Auditorium. John will conduct the first and fourth concerts, on October 19, 2007 and May 16, 2008 and Doug will conduct the second and third concerts, on December 7, 2007 and March 14, 2008.

Dr. John Dovaras, our Music Director/Conductor from 2002 -2006 remains with the orchestra as its Conductor Emeritus. His experience, knowledge of music, and professionalism over the past 4 years was a great benefit to the Orchestra. His contribution to the Royal Oak Symphony Orchestra has made a lasting impression on all its members. We thank him for his years with us.

Peter Tolias, our former Music Director and Conductor, remains with the orchestra as its Conductor Emeritus. His experience with the group, as well as his expertise in the music field, is of great value to the orchestra.

PHILOSOPHY
The ensemble is a cultural offering to Royal Oak and our neighboring communities. Formed specifically for area musicians who desire to continue making music a life long avocation, its purpose was broadened to offer its listeners opportunities to hear live performances of musical masterworks which have survived and been appreciated by audiences for hundreds of years. The orchestra is comprised of adults of all ages and professions. We hope you will like our contributions.