Bellingham Symphony Orchestra and North Sound Youth Symphony Announce Partnership, Upcoming Merger

[BELLINGHAM, WA] — The Bellingham Symphony Orchestra (BSO) and North Sound
Youth Symphony (NSYS) are embarking on an expanded partnership designed to
strengthen the future of orchestral music in Whatcom County. This will create more
opportunities for young musicians to learn, perform, and connect with the region’s
professional music community.

The 2026–2027 season will serve as a transition year as the two organizations work
together to build a shared future. A full merger is planned to take effect in July 2027,
ahead of the 2027–2028 season.

“A shared vision board and space was the starting point and really set the tone for this
partnership,” said Gail Ridenour, executive director of the Bellingham Symphony
Orchestra. “BSO and NSYS have similar values when it comes to investing in our
community and youth so that we can share the joy of music with all ages for generations
to come.”

The partnership brings together two organizations with a shared commitment to musical
excellence, accessible music education, and the transformative power of making music
together. NSYS provides young musicians with opportunities to develop their skills,
perform challenging orchestral repertoire, and grow through collaboration with their
peers. Through this expanded relationship, BSO and NSYS aim to build on that
foundation while connecting students more directly with professional musicians and the
broader musical life of the community.

A transition year full of musical opportunities

Students are already benefiting from the collaboration. This season, young musicians
will have two side-by-side playing opportunities with BSO musicians, giving
students the chance to experience orchestral performance alongside professional
players, learn through shared rehearsal experiences, and see firsthand what it means to
make music at the next level.

"North Sound Youth Symphony has been the musical home for thousands of local
families over our 33 years,” said Desiree Kane, current NSYS board president. “The
collaboration this year and upcoming merger for next season will continue our mission
to provide musical excellence through performance of a repertoire of the highest
educational and artistic quality, provide equal opportunities for all aspiring young
musicians, encourage leadership, and support our community through access to free
public concerts. Our goal is that the upcoming merger with BSO will allow us to improve
access to music education for generations to come.”

The transition year will allow both organizations to continue their existing programs
while laying the groundwork for a unified structure that supports students, families,
educators, and musicians.

Building a stronger future for music in Whatcom County

The planned July 2027 merger represents an opportunity to align resources, deepen
educational opportunities, and strengthen the long-term sustainability of youth
orchestral music in the region. By bringing the organizations together, BSO and NSYS
hope to create a more connected musical community in which young musicians can
develop their talents, learn from experienced performers, and envision a future that
includes music.

“I’m excited about what this partnership will make possible for young musicians in our
community,” says BSO Music Director Yaniv Attar. “Bringing the BSO and North Sound
Youth Symphony together will create new opportunities for students to grow, be
inspired, and experience the joy of making music alongside our orchestra musicians.”

About the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra

The Bellingham Symphony Orchestra is the resident orchestra of the historic Mount
Baker Theatre. Now in its 51st season, the BSO presents orchestral concerts,
educational performances, and community programs that connect people of all ages
with the power of live music. The organization is committed to making meaningful
musical experiences accessible throughout the region.

Learn more at http://bellinghamsymphony.org

About North Sound Youth Symphony

North Sound Youth Symphony provides young musicians in Northwest Washington with
a fun, inspirational, and challenging orchestral experience. Through its Symphony and
Philharmonia ensembles, students develop musical skills, explore orchestral repertoire,
and build confidence, teamwork, and community through performance.

Learn more at bellinghamsymphony.org/nsys-home.

Media Contact:
Stacee Sledge
Bellingham Symphony Orchestra
marketing@bellinghamsymphony.org