NISO

From the first stirring note to the final, lingering chord, the Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra has filled our region with music that inspires, unites, and delights. Its members—seasoned musicians and gifted students alike—bring the tri-state’s finest talent to one stage, performing works that resonate far beyond the concert hall.

For generations, NISO has been part of the cultural heartbeat of Northwest Iowa, even investing in the next generation of musicians by funding private lessons for high school members.

Dordt University is honored to continue its decades-long partnership with NISO, now as its steward, ensuring this treasured tradition remains strong for years to come.

This is your symphony. This is your NISO.

2025-26 Season

A New Era Looking Back

November 11, 2025

This performance will include Copland's "Fanfare for the Common Man," Hayden's "Concerto for Fortepiano in D Major" (featuring soloist Daniel Maltz), and Beethoven's "Symphony No. 7."

Viking Mountain Brass (Guest Concert)

January 24, 2026

Formed in 2023, this ensemble consists of five talented musicians from East Tennessee, performing a wide variety of music from Baroque arrangements to 90s pop medleys. They love sharing their high-energy harmonies with audiences through live performances, educational outreach, and collaborations with local artists.

Résonance Voices (Guest Concert)

March 21, 2026

Résonance is a premier semiprofessional vocal ensemble, comprised of multi-talented singers from the Omaha area, whose mission is to engage, inspire and challenge those they entertain through eclectic and innovative vocal music performances and compelling collaborations. Under the direction of A. Barron Breland, Résonance boasts a roster of versatile, committed vocal artists who tell compelling stories through song.

Old Bottles with New Wine

March 31, 2026

This performance will include Smetana's "Ma Vlast Nr. 2 Vltava 'The Moldau,'" Jacob's "Old Wine in New Bottles," and Saint-Saëns' "Symphony No. 3 'Organ Symphony'" (featuring soloist Dr. Carrie Groenewold).

Ticket Information

Tickets for the 2025-26 season are now on sale.

A season ticket for the 2025-26 season provide admittance to all four concerts, at a discounted rate!

All concerts are to take place in the B.J. Haan Auditorium. Seats are general admission.

Get your tickets today!

About NISO

The Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra (NISO) is an ensemble that draws musicians from surrounding communities including Sioux Center, Hull, Orange City, Rock Valley, Sioux Falls, Sioux City, Storm Lake, Rock Rapids, Vermillion, and beyond. It includes adults of all ages as well as gifted music students from area high schools and colleges.

NISO presents three concerts per season in addition to the annual Concert for Children, which is given each November for over 1,000 area 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students. All concerts are performed at 7:30 p.m. in the B.J. Haan Auditorium.

NISO/NISYO is made possible by the generous support of Dordt University, Sioux Center Recreation and Arts Council, Friends of the Symphony, and individual patrons, organizations and business establishments.