Public Law 97–183

Joint Resolution

Authorizing and requesting the President to proclaim “National Orchestra Week”.

Whereas America’s one thousand five hundred and seventy-two symphony and chamber orchestras are among our Nation’s finest cultural and artistic resources, providing inspiration and enjoyment to more than twenty-three million people each year throughout the country;

Whereas America’s greatest professional orchestras are internationally recognized as among the finest in the world, setting the standards of excellence against which other musical endeavors are measured;

Whereas America’s orchestras serve their communities as total musical resources by supporting other arts activities and cooperating in joint artistic ventures;

Whereas America’s orchestras cultivate a national musical heritage by nurturing young talent, providing opportunities for American-trained musicians and conductors, and promoting performances of American music;

Whereas America’s orchestras educate the youth of the country by providing high quality music education through youth concerts, in-school demonstrations and training programs, and master classes;

Whereas America’s orchestras reach diverse audiences beyond the concert hall through regional and national tours, free outdoor performances, and other special events;

Whereas the success of America’s orchestras has been the result of a joint effort of skilled professionals and dedicated volunteers working together to promote and produce music in their communities; and

Whereas America’s orchestras have grown in size and artistic quality during the past ten years, with the help of direct grants from the orchestra program of the National Endowment for the Arts: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,

Approved May 24, 1982.