The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra started its summertime “Casual Classics” series in order to broaden its appeal and bring in some revenue. It did far better than expected with both goals.

The four-concert series, which began on two Friday nights in late May and concluded with a pair of Sunday afternoons in late June, featured lighter music and a relaxed atmosphere. It brought in more than 6,300 ticket-buyers — almost one-third of them new to the orchestra — and exceeded its sales target by 36 percent.

In a prepared statement, the orchestra’s president and executive director, Fred Bronstein said that the series “went right to the heart of” the goal of building audiences. “Now we want to build on this success by making Powell Hall the place to be, where there is something for everyone.”

Bronstein’s future plans for the orchestra include performances of Howard Shore’s “Lord of the Rings” Symphony in September, a guitar festival and performances with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago.