Gustavus Symphony Orchestra (GSO)

Founded in 1888, and one of our four renowned touring ensembles, the 65-70 member Gustavus Symphony Orchestra (GSO) is an integral musical contributor to Gustavus Adolphus College, the local community, and beyond. Featuring talented and dedicated students from diverse majors, the orchestra performs a variety of symphonic concerts throughout the year, and is a vital part of Christmas in Christ Chapel. Additionally, GSO hosts the concerto and aria competition for students annually, who are featured in the final concert of the year. As the official touring orchestral ensemble from the Department of Music, GSO tours every year and internationally every three years. The orchestra toured internationally in May of 2025 to Ireland and Scotland. Other previous international tours have included the British Isles and the People's Republic of China, South Africa, Greece and Macedonia, and Malaysia and Singapore. GSO is led by Justin Knoepfel.

Hear from GSO students: