The Bowdoin Symphony Orchestra debuts this year with 72 members—the largest orchestra in the College’s history. The influx of new musicians corresponds with Bowdoin’s record-size first-year class, but Orchestra Director and Beckwith Artist-in-Residence George Lopez attributes the growth to more than just chance.

“I’m sure having Bowdon’s largest incoming class didn’t hurt! But I don’t think this is a one-year spike,” Lopez wrote in an email to the Orient. “The orchestra has been steadily growing for several years, and I see this as the result of a real group effort.”

Lopez credited the music department liaison in the Office of Admissions for connecting with students who are interested in making music a key part of their college experience. Additionally, he emphasized how the orchestra’s musicians have been a major part of the recruitment process and its success.

“Ultimately, the students themselves have probably been our best recruiters. We’ve tried to give them real ownership of the orchestra,” Lopez wrote. “We have a student committee made up of principal players and representatives from each class, as well as a student orchestra manager who really embodies the spirit and commitment of the ensemble.”

The orchestra’s expanded size is also shaping its plans for the season, both in terms of adding a holiday concert and its music selection.

“[The size] opens up some wonderful possibilities for programming and gives our students the experience of playing the kind of major orchestral literature they might not otherwise have an opportunity to perform at a liberal arts college,” Lopez wrote.

Orchestra Manager Hannah Klupt ’29, who helped with the recruitment process by advertising for the orchestra and posting on social media, is excited to see what the numerous new members bring to the orchestra.

“Not only are they all talented and great players, but I think socially … the energy they bring is great,” Klupt said. “Great for us, great for the group and it’s definitely [going to] bring some new stuff in, and I mean, bigger is better.”