Berkeley Symphony Orchestra

Founded in 1971 in the intellectual and artistic nexus of Berkeley, California, Berkeley Symphony is unique among Bay Area and American orchestras for its commitment to innovation, community, and excellence. Recognized both locally and internationally for its spirited programming and community service, Berkeley Symphony is renowned for its dedication to presenting vibrant contemporary and classical masterworks. The Symphony presents public Symphonic, Chamber, and Family series performances, and produces over 360 Music in the Schools events annually. Berkeley Symphony is the recipient of numerous ASCAP awards for adventurous programming, and the orchestra been called “the model of self generating excellence” (Financial Times) with “a winning catalog of musical virtues” (San Francisco Chronicle).

Core Goals:

• Identify, attract, and retain superb artistic leadership and musicians, ensuring the highest quality orchestra possible.
• Commission new music from composers whose work invigorates the symphonic repertoire.
• Perform new and recently composed symphonic works alongside traditional repertoire, highlighting the development of classical music to the present day.
• Provide free, in-school music education programs for children that foster intellectual and physical skills for music performance and build the symphony audience of the future.
• Provide mentorship and career development opportunities for the next generation of composers.