Pacific Symphony

Pacific Symphony is a renowned orchestra based in Orange County, California, known for its exceptional music performances, as well as its comprehensive education and community programming. The organization's mission is to inspire, engage, and serve the region through outstanding musical experiences. With a vision to lead a renaissance in the appreciation, accessibility, and impact of classical music in Orange County and beyond, Pacific Symphony is committed to creativity, responsiveness, and innovation.\n\nThe values of Pacific Symphony include excellence, striving for the highest quality in performance, community service, and organization. It also emphasizes passion, bringing determination and vitality to its work, and projecting a sense of pride. Education is a key value, with the aim to ensure greater understanding and appreciation of music by all ages. Engagement with the community, artists, and volunteers is crucial in shaping the future of music and ensuring its broader impact. Innovation is embraced to anticipate change, experiment with new practices, and shape the future of classical music. Lastly, financial responsibility is upheld to generate and steward programs and resources for present and future generations.\n\nPacific Symphony's history is marked by significant milestones, including the creation of arts-X-press in 2001. This program was established in memory of Cole Carsan St.Clair, the son of Pacific Symphony Music Director Carl St.Clair and his wife, Susan, following a tragic accident. Inspired by similar programs and the importance of the arts during middle school, arts-X-press offers a safe space for students in Orange County to take creative risks, make new friends, and embrace life's magic moments.\n\nUnder the leadership of Music Director Carl St.Clair, Pacific Symphony has become an integral part of the cultural fabric of the community. The orchestra features a talented roster of musicians and conductors who contribute to its dynamic performances. The organization is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors and Board of Counselors, supported by a professional staff.\n\nPacific Symphony's commitment to community engagement is evident through its various programs, including Class Act, Family Musical Mornings, Heartstrings, and Music Instruction. It also offers Master Classes and the innovative \"OC Can You Play With Us\" program. The Youth Ensembles, including the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra (PSYO), Youth Wind Ensemble (PSYWE), Santiago Strings (PSSS), and Youth Concert Band (PSYCB), provide young musicians with opportunities to develop their skills and perform.\n\nThe Symphony's home is the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, a world-class venue known for its exceptional acoustics and facilities. The organization also performs at other venues such as the Samueli Theater, Soka Performing Arts Center, and FivePoint Amphitheatre, ensuring accessibility to a wide audience.\n\nPacific Symphony has a vibrant presence beyond the concert hall, with initiatives like the Opera and Vocal Initiative, American Composers Festival, and a variety of special events. The Symphony also maintains an active Press & Media Center, offering a press room, media gallery, and a blog to keep the community informed.\n\nFor those looking to support the Symphony, there are numerous ways to get involved, including donations, volunteering, and participating in societies and clubs that contribute to the organization's mission. The Pacific Symphony League and various membership levels offer additional opportunities for engagement.\n\nIn summary, Pacific Symphony stands as a beacon of musical excellence and community engagement in Southern California, with a rich history and a forward-looking approach to making classical music a vital and enriching part of the community's cultural life.