Yuba Sutter Oratorio Society

The Yuba Sutter Oratorio Society (YSOS) is a distinguished musical organization with a rich history spanning over eight decades. Founded by Yuba College instructor Ralph B. van Courtright more than eighty years ago, the society began with a group of dedicated singers and instrumentalists from the Yuba-Sutter area. Their inaugural performance was a Christmas presentation of George Frederic Handel's oratorio, "Messiah," which has since become a traditional fixture of the holiday season in the region. The first performance of "Messiah" under the auspices of the Yuba Sutter Oratorio Society took place in December 1939 at what is now known as the Marysville Auditorium. Ralph B. van Courtright not only directed the initial performance but continued to lead the production for the following seventeen years. His commitment to the arts was further demonstrated through the establishment of the Yuba-Sutter Oratorio Society, ensuring ongoing support for the annual performances of "Messiah." Throughout its history, the Yuba Sutter Oratorio Society has experienced significant growth and evolution. Originally a small ensemble, the orchestra that accompanied the "Messiah" performances has expanded into the full-fledged Yuba-Sutter Symphony. The society has also invested in period-specific instruments, such as a harpsichord and a baroque trumpet, to enhance the authenticity of their performances. Beyond the annual "Messiah" concert, the Yuba Sutter Oratorio Society has broadened its musical offerings. It sponsors a variety of concerts throughout the year, including a Spring Pops Concert, an annual 4th of July Concert, a Fall Orchestral Concert, and a Young Artist Showcase, which features the winners of the Young Artist Solo Competition. In 2012, the society introduced "Messiah for Kids," an initiative aimed at engaging younger audiences, presented on the same weekend as the traditional "Messiah" concert. Governance of the Yuba Sutter Oratorio Society has become more formalized over time, with a board of directors that meets regularly to oversee the organization's activities. The society's commitment to fostering musical talent and appreciation within the Yuba-Sutter area remains steadfast, as it continues to celebrate and promote the joy of music through its various concerts and educational programs.