Inspired by Here: KSO Shares a New Look + Clear Direction as it Begins its 50th Year

The Kamloops Symphony Orchestra (KSO) and the KSO Music School are entering their 50th year with a fresh new look and a renewed promise to the community. They say music should belong to everyone, and this anniversary year is a chance to show that in new ways.

This update begins a year-long 50th Anniversary celebration. It also reflects pride in the KSO’s history and confidence in what comes next. The new theme, Inspired by Here, highlights the KSO’s roots in Kamloops and its close connection to the people and landscapes of the B.C. Interior.

The new design was created by MCQUEEN Creative and is inspired by local landmarks. The logo is shaped to reflect the region. The K represents the hoodoos. The S follows the river. The O stands for the sun. In the space between the letters, you can see the North and South Thompson Rivers coming together to form the Thompson River. The design ties the KSO’s identity to the land where it performs.

This new look reflects something the KSO has always believed. The organization is grounded in this place and cares about the communities it serves across the Interior. At the same time, the orchestra includes musicians who travel from across Western Canada to perform together in Kamloops. Kamloops is a meeting point for rivers, rail lines, and highways. In a similar way, the KSO brings people together to create something bigger than any one person. The new identity aims to honour both ideas: pride in place and pride in being a gathering point for talented musicians.

“This is about being clear about who we are,” said Christopher Young, Executive Director of the KSO and KSO Music School. “As we enter our 50th year, this moment helps guide our future. It recognizes where we come from, who we are responsible to, and the role we have as a cultural organization rooted in this land and community. We were built here, for here, and we believe great cultural work can come from here.”

“Strong communities lead with culture,” said John McDonald, Board President of the KSO and KSO Music School. “This new chapter shows pride in Kamloops and confidence in what we can build together. The arts are one of our strongest social and economic assets, and they are central to community life. Celebrating 50 years is not only about looking back. It is also about choosing creativity, optimism, and purpose.”