As students walk down Beaver Avenue, they might notice the banners hanging from the light posts announcing -- in ruby red -- that it's the 40th anniversary of the Nittany Valley Symphony (NVS).

For four decades, the NVS has been providing classical music to community members and students in State College.

"It's a different kind of orchestra," said Tere Rill, the executive director. "It's a mix of professional, semi-professional and volunteer musicians, which include professors, students and business people from the community."

The banners hung downtown to symbolize the milestone, Rill said.

"The banners have our name in ruby for a couple of reasons. One is that the 40th anniversary stone is traditionally the ruby," she said. "In addition, we see ourselves as the cultural jewel of the community."

At a time when many professional orchestras have had to close their doors because of lack of funding, Rill said she thinks it is remarkable to have lasted 40 years.

"It's just a huge milestone that the community has helped us reach," she said. "We even have members who have been playing the whole 40 years."

Barbara Passow, an original member of NVS and currently the second violin chair, said the major difference in the Symphony from 40 years ago is the size.

"Well, we've grown larger," she said. "I've been with the symphony so long just because I enjoy playing the music. Even though we don't get too many students in the audience, they should be interested because we're really very good."

Rill said students should try to make it to a concert to enjoy a unique experience.

"Honestly just listening to a live classical concert is amazing and educational," she said. "It's something not many students are interested in, but it is very moving when you experience it."

Susan Graham, a cello player, said Penn State students should be interested in NVS because it can give them a chance to actually play in a full orchestra.

"There aren't that many opportunities to play in an orchestra like NVS, and it's great for students to learn how it is like to play within a group of that size," she said.

Graham said she agrees that its amazing NVS has lasted for 40 years.

"The fact that it's been around for so long, obviously it's an important part of the community," she said. "It serves a wonderful purpose."

In addition to its endurance, NVS is unique in that it is the only full-size community orchestra between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, Rill said.

NVS will be celebrating the entire season, beginning with its first concert Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m., in Eisenhower Auditorium.

The members said they see the orchestra getting stronger in coming years.

"We are continuing into the future with new ideas and innovations," Rill said.

Graham said she has faith the symphony can grow bigger and better.

"NVS is getting better and stronger as a group every year and will continue to get better and stronger," Graham said. "We have a lot of community support that has gotten us this far, and we're developing even further as an essential part of this community."