The orchestra attributed the surplus to increases in contributions and single-ticket sales. In September, the orchestra announced that its attendance rose by 4.6 percent in 2004-05, and that fundraising for its annual fund rose by nine percent to a record $6.1. million.

The ISO has reversed a trend that saw declines in attendance every year between 1998 and 2003 and six-figure deficits in 2001-02 and 2002-03.

"The accomplishments of this past year, both artistically and administratively, were significant," orchestra president Simon Crookal said. "However, the challenges remain formidable to continue on a path that leads to steady artistic growth and financial stability."