ProMusica Chamber Orchestra
Established in 1979, ProMusica Chamber Orchestra is known for its exceptional artistry, audience intimacy, and community engagement.
A cornerstone of Columbus’ vibrant arts community, ProMusica is also nationally recognized for its longstanding commitment to new music.
Dedicated to shaping the future of orchestral music, ProMusica has commissioned 73 original works and premiered more than 120 compositions over its 47 seasons—expanding the chamber orchestra repertoire and promoting the works of living composers of today.
“The arts are a powerful conduit within a community. It can convene, ignite, and inspire—fostering conversations and a connection to humanity,” said Janet Chen, CEO of ProMusica. “For me, music is a universal language that offers us the tools to break down barriers and bring musical opportunity to those who don’t have access. It is a great privilege and responsibility to serve Columbus in this way.”
Created in 1986, The Columbus Foundation Award recognizes organizations that have made a difference in the quality of life in our community.
Chen explains that when it comes to programming, ProMusica balances bold, artistic risk with familiar classics—pushing the boundaries to create a modern-day orchestral experience. She credits Music Director David Danzmayr for playing a strong role in connecting with audiences across diverse musical eras, influences, generations, and backgrounds.
With initiatives including its Composer/Performer Project, Naked Classics, and crossover collaborations with artists such as Jon Batiste and Rhiannon Giddens, Chen said, “It is all about presenting live music in reimagined and meaningful ways for people to connect and experience with each other.”
Beyond the stage, ProMusica is deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of the community, serving approximately 20,000 central Ohio residents annually through outreach and education programs at no cost to participants. Designed to reach people of all ages, the orchestra travels to area schools, opens its live rehearsals to students and seniors, puts instruments and musical instruction directly into the hands of middle schoolers, and engages audiences in post-concert conversations.
Many of ProMusica’s outreach and education programs are possible because of its strong partnerships with other central Ohio nonprofits, reinforcing the orchestra’s commitment to be a resource to help serve the community.
For instance, for more than 20 years, ProMusica has partnered with Columbus Metropolitan Library to present free family concerts as well as Storytimes for pre-school aged children. Meanwhile, its Summer Music Series welcomes thousands of guests annually to Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, at no cost. Finally, in partnership with Columbus Early Learning Centers, ProMusica is now playing a part in early childhood development by bringing music to the region’s youngest learners.
Looking toward the organization’s future, Chen is energized by the possibilities—to explore new partnerships, to engage new audiences, and to discover new ways to grow and evolve alongside the community.
“We are excited about building on over four decades of artistry, and our unwavering commitment to creative expression, collaborative music making, and to our community,” said Chen. “ProMusica aspires to be a place where extraordinary music is not just created and performed but truly shared with everyone.”
In recognition of the important role the organization plays in anchoring central Ohio’s arts sector and its innovative work to inspire the community through music, ProMusica has been selected as the 2025 honoree of The Columbus Foundation Award. As part of the award, ProMusica will receive a $100,000 unrestricted grant from The Columbus Foundation.