1970's

1970

First annual children's concerts presented

1973

Springfield Symphony sponsors first Young Artists' Competition

1976

Ensembles-In-Schools program introduced into the Springfield Public School system

1978

Charles Bontrager is hired as conductor to succeed Charles Hall; Bontrager becomes first full-time conductor of the orchestra; serves until 1993

1979

First Carols of Christmas concert performed under Bontrager's direction