The Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Society

     What began 60 years ago has evolved into a strong organization providing scholarships for orchestral musicians attending Northwestern State University.  In 1966 the symphony society was formed as a college/community collaboration to promote music and the arts in the Natchitoches community.  It has grown from just a few scholarships in the early years to over 29 students receiving symphony society scholarships for the 2025-2026 school year.

     Creation of the non-profit organization was led by NSU music instructor/conductor Dr. Joseph B. Carlucci, Martha Roberson and Jim Bob Key.  Local attorney, Arthur C. Watson, drew up the articles of incorporation and bylaws for the 19 member Board of Directors.  The first Board of Directors included President Martha Roberson, Vice President Jim Bob Key, Secretary Edwina Friedman, Treasurer Arthur Watson; also serving as board members were Margaret Adkins, Dr. Archie Breazeale Jr., Ruth Cunningham, Hertzog DeBlieux, Norman Fletcher, Senator Sylvan Friedman, Harold Kaffie, Ed Pierson, Virginia Pierson, Mayor W. Ray Scott, Dr.  Paul Torgrimson, Dorothy Townsend, and, of course, Dr. Carlucci. 

     Early concerts were performed in A.A. Fredericks Auditorium with the orchestra composed of students, faculty members and professional musicians hired from other orchestras.  There were fewer concerts with the first concert performed in December, a formal affair with a Symphony Ball afterward at the local country club (no longer in existence).  Over the years the orchestra became all student musicians and the symphony society became focused on providing scholarships for these students.  With the creation of Magale Recital Hall, concerts became more welcoming to all with less formal environment and better sound quality.

    Today, after 22 years under the direction of Dr. Douglas Bakenhus, the NSU world-class orchestra performs five concerts throughout the year plus participating in the NSU School of Creative and Performing Arts Christmas Gala show.  Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, written by attorney and board member Jeff Thomas, were adopted May 2, 2019.  Amended in 2025, the Mission Statement’s primary goal is “providing scholarships for orchestra musicians who attend Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana.”  The NNSS Board of Directors, 21 voting members, serve on a volunteer basis.

     The orchestra is an amazing education and cultural asset to both the university and community.  It is an essential recruiting tool for Dr. Bakenhus.  Community support is vital to helping the symphony society continue to provide scholarships for these talented musicians.  The Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Society is grateful and thanks you, the Friends of the Symphony, for your continued support.

Celebrating 60 Years of Music