Amarillo is home to the only professional symphony in the Texas Panhandle region. The symphony’s beginnings stem from a twelve-member group of musicians known as the Philharmonic Club. These “Original 12,” headlined by Miss Grace Hamilton, began playing special concerts for residents in their homes beginning in 1924. By 1926 the Philharmonic Club had a full-time conductor, Ellis B. Hall, who stayed with the Philharmonic until 1936.

Presently, the Amarillo Symphony consists of eighty-five musicians. The symphony’s programs include an eight-concert season, with educational concerts, including the Amarillo Symphony Youth Orchestra.