Mission, Vision & Values

OUR MISSION & VISION

The Detroit Symphony Orchestra impacts lives through the power of unforgettable musical experiences by sustaining a world class orchestra for our city and the global community.

The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is an inclusive and culturally relevant community where all people can experience their world through music.

OUR CORE VALUES

EXCELLENCE: We hold ourselves to high standards grounded in integrity and pride.

Excellence is not about perfection; it’s delivering quality with accountability, artistry, and heart. We celebrate excellence in every role—on stage and behind the scenes.

COLLABORATION: We do our best work together, aligned by trust, curiosity and shared purpose.

Collaboration means aligning goals, giving feedback and celebrating collective success across all teams. When we lift together, we rise stronger.

INCLUSION: We create spaces where everyone feels seen, valued and welcome.

Inclusion means representation, accessibility, and equity, fulfilled when people experience belonging. We practice inclusion not as a policy, but as an everyday act of welcome.

INNOVATION: We stay curious, evolve with our community and shape what’s next.

Innovation is creating for growth—it’s learning, adapting and finding new ways to connect, serve and inspire. We honor tradition while shaping what’s next.

CARE: We lead with empathy and hospitality, serving people and community with heart.

Care is how we serve—in our culture, our partnerships, and our audience experiences. Radical welcome begins within and radiates outward.