Berkeley Symphony

Founded by Thomas Rarick in 1971, Berkeley Symphony has become an integral part of the Bay Area classical music scene. Our orchestra, known for its blend of classical and contemporary music, has grown into a respected institution that both honors its roots and embraces innovation. Starting in 1978, Berkeley Symphony 
gained an international reputation for its adventurous programming, becoming known for premiering the music of international composers and showcasing young local talents. We’ve continued to make history in the intervening years, welcoming Joana Carneiro, our third Music Director in 2009, and the renowned Joseph Young in 2018. Today, Maestro Young continues to build our legacy of innovative programming, award-winning educational programs stewarded by Education Director Ming Luke, and extensive community engagement efforts, such as Students at the Symphony. The UC Berkeley Symphony Orchestra (UCBSO) is a distinguished university ensemble with a storied history and a reputation for excellence in musical performance. Established in 1923, the UCBSO has become a significant cultural presence in the Bay Area, offering 15-18 concerts each season. The orchestra's repertoire spans from Baroque to contemporary pieces, with a particular focus on music since the 20th century. Under the leadership of Music Director David Milnes, now in his 21st season, the UCBSO has solidified its standing as a major force in the musical landscape. The ensemble has been a launching pad for many of its members, who have gone on to attend prestigious conservatories such as the Juilliard School, the Eastman School of Music, the Peabody Institute, and the Manhattan School of Music. Alumni have also joined the ranks of renowned orchestras including the Concertgebouw, the National Symphony, and the Philharmonia Orchestra, as well as leading new music ensembles like Alarm Will Sound, the International Contemporary Ensemble, and Yarn/Wire. The UCBSO is characterized by its high musical standards, which have been enhanced through collaborations with CalPerformances, leading to masterclasses and workshops with notable figures such as Valery Gergiev, Gustavo Dudamel, Marin Alsop, and Esa-Pekka Salonen. The orchestra benefits from regular coaching by members of the San Francisco Symphony and Opera orchestras and visiting artists like the Vienna Philharmonic and Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra. A hallmark of the UCBSO is its commitment to new music, often premiering works by UC Berkeley’s internationally recognized faculty and other eminent composers. The orchestra has a special relationship with UC Berkeley’s Center for New Music and Technologies, which has resulted in innovative performances that incorporate technology. In addition to new works, the UCBSO is known for its compelling interpretations of orchestral masterpieces, having performed complete symphonic cycles by composers such as Beethoven, Brahms, Mahler, Shostakovich, Sibelius, and Prokofiev. The orchestra's annual concerto competition showcases the talents of its musicians, with past winners performing a range of concertos from Tchaikovsky to Mozart. The UCBSO's members are not only music majors but also students from diverse academic backgrounds, including English, biology, engineering, history, and computer science, many of whom pursue successful careers in their respective fields. Concerts are typically held on Friday and Saturday evenings each month, and the orchestra also engages in chamber music performances, participating in the music department’s Noon Concert Series and at the Women’s Faculty Club. Additional performance opportunities are provided by a student-conducted chamber orchestra and a summer symphony, further enriching the musical experiences of Berkeley students. The UC Berkeley Symphony Orchestra invites audiences to experience the musical talents of its members and to enjoy the rich tradition of orchestral music at one of their many performances throughout the year.