Ensemble

Lawton Philharmonic Orchestra

The Lawton Philharmonic Society presented its first volunteer concert in November 1962; Nels Harveland served as conductor, director, and manager; Cameron University worked with the orchestra in its early years; the orchestra became independent in 1988 when Alan Burdick was hired.

The documented story

The current About Us page describes approximately 84 professional musicians, concerts, student education, Conversations with the Maestro, and outreach.

People and leadership

Nels Harveland and Alan Burdick are documented historical leadership anchors; Jon Kalbfleisch is the current conductor.

Community and organization

The Lawton Philharmonic Society is a civic nonprofit; Cameron University provided early institutional support and later the orchestra operated independently.

Reading the evidence

The exact full conductor succession and annual season chronology remain open.

Questions for further research

Recover original 1962 program, Society incorporation and board records, complete conductor chronology, roster, and media rights.

Dated evidence in this record
  1. 1962 – 2026

    Lawton Philharmonic presented its first volunteer concert in November 1962, developed with early Cameron University support, became independent in 1988 under Alan Burdick, and currently reports approximately 84 professional musicians under Jon Kalbfleisch.

Sources

  1. lawtonphil.com/about
  2. www.lawtonok.gov/731/Lawton-Philharmonic-Society