SOGD – Our Story

Supporting symphonic music in our community since 1974

The story of symphonic music in Decatur stretches back more than a century. The first recorded mention of a Millikin Symphony appeared in the 1906 Millikin yearbook, when the ensemble included just six musicians. By 1907, it had grown to 24 members.

In 1914, a Decatur Symphony was formed with 58 local musicians. Although that orchestra disbanded in 1917, the desire for a community orchestra remained. Another ensemble was organized in 1926, made up primarily of “pit” musicians who had played for silent movies.

The foundation for today’s orchestra was established in 1947 with the formation of the Millikin-Decatur Symphony. Students and faculty from Millikin University joined musicians from Decatur and the surrounding communities to make music together—a partnership between university and community that continues today.

In 1973, Dr. Ronald Gregory became conductor of the orchestra. With his encouragement and the enthusiasm of several community members, the Symphony Orchestra Guild of Decatur (SOGD) was formed in 1974.

The response was remarkable. The newly formed Guild welcomed approximately 400 members in its first year, demonstrating the community’s strong commitment to supporting symphonic music in Decatur.

In 2024, the Symphony Orchestra Guild of Decatur proudly celebrated its 50th anniversary—five decades of service, fundraising, friendship, and support for the orchestra and its musicians.

Today, SOGD continues the work begun by those dedicated volunteers in 1974. Through special events, fundraising, educational support, and advocacy, Guild members help ensure that symphonic music remains a vibrant part of the Decatur community for generations to come.

More than 50 years later, our mission continues: supporting the music, the musicians, and the community we love.

Board of Directors