Mahalo
Minneapolis, MN

METROPOLITAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAL ASSOCIATION

EIN 36-3305025
Arts, Culture & Heritage Performing Arts
Mission

Performing outstanding symphony concerts for diverse audiences throughout the Twin Cities and keeping concerts accessible by reducing financial barriers to attendance.

IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) public charity Contributions are tax-deductible

About METROPOLITAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAL ASSOCIATION

The organization operates publicly as the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra (MSO), a 501(c)(3) civic symphony based in Minneapolis that presents full symphonic programs in neighborhood venues across the Twin Cities. Founded in 1982 by St. Olaf College alumni, the MSO has grown from a chamber ensemble into a full symphony orchestra that combines skilled volunteer musicians with guest soloists and collaborative partners. In recent years the MSO has continued active community engagement and artistic development, including commissioning and premiering new works and sustaining largely free or low-cost concerts. Organizational milestones in the last 2–3 years include the return of founding conductor Steven Amundson as Music Director for the 2024–2025 season and a leadership transition on the administrative side announced on the MSO website.

Notable achievements

Established community presence since 1982

Founded in 1982, the MSO has operated for over four decades as a regional civic orchestra, expanding from a small chamber group into a full symphony that regularly programs challenging repertoire and community-focused performances.

Artistic leadership milestone: return of founding Music Director

In May 2024 the MSO announced the appointment of Steven Amundson—its founding conductor—as Music Director beginning with the 2024–2025 season, signaling a high-profile artistic renewal and continuity with the orchestra's origins.

Commissioning and premieres of new works

The orchestra has co-commissioned and premiered works by contemporary composers and maintained collaborations with noted Minnesota composers and soloists, reinforcing its role in presenting new orchestral music to Twin Cities audiences.

At a glance

Total assets
$50K
Annual revenue
$107K
Tax status
501(c)(3)Public charity
EIN
36-3305025
Location
Minneapolis, MN
Website
msomn.org
On Mahalo since
May 2026

Financial figures from the IRS Business Master File, the IRS’s registry of tax-exempt organizations.

Recognition

Positive critical coverage from local press (notably praise for performances such as the MSO’s presentation of Mahler’s Second Symphony).
Grant support from regional arts funders, including awards administered through the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council (Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund).
Public nonprofit profiles and fundraising presence on platforms used by donors (e.g., GiveMN) and nonprofit data services (organization is listed in nonprofit databases and tax filings).

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