KENNETT SQUARE, PA — After more than eight decades of enriching the cultural fabric of Chester County and beyond, the Kennett Symphony has announced a significant rebranding. The orchestra will now be known as the Brandywine Valley Symphony, a name that reflects its regional growth, national recognition, and artistic achievements.
The announcement came during the symphony’s annual season finale concert at Longwood Gardens. This transformation underscores the ensemble’s evolution from a small volunteer community orchestra in 1940 into a fully professional orchestra that continues to captivate audiences across northern Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
“The Brandywine Valley is a name that will be recognized across the country and deeply associated with arts and culture,” said Dr. Timothy Blair, Board President and Dean and Professor Emeritus of the School of Music at West Chester University. “As an orchestra, we’ve grown into a more prominent presence with a broader audience, and we need a name that reflects that evolution. While we remain rooted in Kennett Square… we’re proud of how far we’ve come.”
The symphony’s rebranding is accompanied by a refreshed visual identity, including a new logo, website, and social media presence under the handle @bvsymphony. This modern digital face aims to attract and engage a growing audience while celebrating its tradition of artistic excellence.
The orchestra’s achievements highlight its transformation over the decades. During the tenure of Mary Woodmansee Green, Pennsylvania’s first woman appointed as conductor of a professional symphony, the then-Kennett Symphony grew significantly in reputation and loyalty. That trajectory has continued under current Music Director Michael Hall, whose leadership has elevated the symphony with high-caliber performances and expanded its reach.
The Brandywine Valley Symphony is poised for yet another milestone as it prepares for a debut performance at Carnegie Hall in 2026. Calling this opportunity a “tremendous honor,” Dr. Blair remarked, “Being invited to perform at Carnegie Hall is a testament to our journey.”
With its rebranding and continued growth, the Brandywine Valley Symphony is set to captivate new audiences and further solidify its position as a cultural institution. Through thrilling performances and meaningful connections, the orchestra remains dedicated to delivering unforgettable musical experiences.
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