[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 175 (Tuesday, December 6, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1593]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





RECOGNIZING THE NORTHWEST INDIANA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA'S 75TH ANNIVERSARY

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 6, 2016

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration 
that I rise to recognize the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra upon 
its 75th anniversary. In honor of this momentous occasion, the 
Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra is hosting a commemorative gala 
that will feature its signature Holiday Pops concert on Thursday, 
December 8, 2016 at the Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville, Indiana.
   The Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra humbly originated in 1941 
as a vision from cello instructor Arthur Zack, who hailed from Gary, 
Indiana. Using the Gary Post-Tribune as a means to recruit performers, 
Zack led twenty-six musicians for the group's first rehearsal. From 
this foundation, the roster flourished, and the first concert was 
performed on December 7, 1941, at Seaman Hall of City Methodist Church 
in Gary. Regrettably, news of the attack on Pearl Harbor was received 
prior to the start of the performance, which prompted Zack to open the 
concert with a heart-felt rendition of ``The Star-Spangled Banner'' on 
the piano. With reverence to the importance of that decision, the 
Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra will commence its 75th anniversary 
concert with the national anthem.
   While remaining with the organization for several more years, Zack's 
perseverance and energy helped shape and establish the group, then 
known as the Gary Symphony. Over the years, its musicians have 
delighted audiences with their performances at various churches and 
schools throughout Northwest Indiana. In 1972, the members reorganized 
as the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra and continued to host 
concerts at area high schools.
   The Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra held its first performance 
at the Star Plaza Theatre in September of 1981, the same venue at which 
the outstanding musicians performed their first concert in November of 
1982. The following year, the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra 
branded the Star Plaza Theatre as its home concert hall, although they 
still remained true to their roots by performing at other local venues 
in the community, including a series of outdoor concerts.
   The Northwest Indiana Symphony is now comprised of the Northwest 
Indiana Symphony Orchestra, the Northwest Indiana Symphony Youth 
Orchestra, the Northwest Indiana Symphony Chorus, and the Women's 
Association. The Orchestra takes pride in its dedication to encouraging 
youth to broaden their knowledge and appreciation of music through 
educational programs.
   Since its inception, scores of distinguished and renowned musicians 
and entertainers from around the world have featured their talents 
alongside the orchestra. Well-known names in music, such as Benny 
Goodman, Dizzy Gillespie, Doc Severinsen and the Tonight Show Band, and 
Roger Williams, have performed as guest artists over the years.
   For the last 75 years, the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra has 
entertained and enchanted audiences with their executions of both 
classical and contemporary music. Their faithful devotion to promoting 
the arts in Northwest Indiana has provided accessibility to cultural 
and enriching opportunities for exceptional musical performances to all 
local residents.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join 
me in congratulating and celebrating the Northwest Indiana Symphony 
Orchestra on its 75th anniversary. Northwest Indiana is grateful and 
proud to be home to the brilliantly talented members of this 
organization, and for their outstanding gifts, leadership, and service, 
these members are worthy of the highest praise.

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