DeKALB – Art programs are often among the first casualties in a struggling economy, but DeKalb County’s premier music organizations have continued to thrive.

Despite many local orchestras struggling throughout the state and country, leaders of the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra and DeKalb Municipal Band say their groups are financially strong and still attracting musicians and audiences thanks to local resources most communities do not enjoy.

Tamara Farrell, publicist and music librarian for the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra, said Northern Illinois University has been a blessing for the group, particularly during recent economic struggles. NIU provides rehearsal space, performance space at the Boutell Concert Hall, percussion instruments and world-class musicians in the music department who often perform with or assist the group.