Redlands Symphony

The Redlands Symphony Association, a registered 501(c)(3) organization, has been a cornerstone of the cultural landscape in Redlands, California, for over seven decades. Founded in 1950 by Dr. Edward C. Tritt, the symphony began as the University-Community Symphony Orchestra, an adjunct to the University of Redlands. It swiftly became an integral part of the community, known for its artistic excellence and performances at the Memorial Chapel.\n\nIn its early years, the orchestra marked significant achievements, such as the premiere of a composition by William Grant Still in 1957 and a sold-out show featuring the legendary Jack Benny in 1974. The Redlands Winter Concert Association, established in 1956, assumed management of the orchestra in 1974, expanding its role to include both symphonic concerts and presentations of touring artists.\n\nA pivotal moment in the organization's history came in 1983 when the University-Community Symphony Orchestra merged with the Redlands Winter Concert Association to form the Redlands Symphony Association. That same year, Jon Robertson was appointed as the Music Director & Conductor, a role he would hold for 33 years. Under Robertson's leadership, the orchestra transitioned to a professional ensemble comprising the region's leading musicians.\n\nThe Redlands Symphony has been committed to community service and education through initiatives like the OrKIDstra program, launched in 1998. This program provides music education and concert experiences to thousands of schoolchildren across the region. It has become a staple of the symphony's outreach, including four concerts annually, curriculum materials, and a free Family Concert & Instrumental Petting Zoo each spring.\n\nThe Symphony maintains a symbiotic relationship with the University of Redlands, which supports the orchestra in various capacities, including the use of the Memorial Chapel. In return, the Symphony offers performance opportunities to the University's School of Music students, allowing them to play alongside some of the region's finest artists, many of whom also serve as faculty at the University.\n\nThroughout its history, the Redlands Symphony Orchestra has garnered acclaim for its performances, including Mahler's \"Resurrection Symphony,\" the Mozart Requiem, and a staged production of Stravinsky's \"A Soldier’s Tale\" featuring Tony Award-winner John Rubinstein. The California Arts Council has lauded the orchestra for its ensemble playing, attention to detail, and rich sound.\n\nAfter Jon Robertson's retirement in 2016, the Symphony welcomed Ransom Wilson as the new Music Director, signaling a new era of artistic ambition and excellence. The Redlands Symphony continues to be the Inland Empire's top choice for high-quality music in an intimate setting, offering a diverse range of concerts and educational programs that inspire, entertain, and educate its audience.\n\nThe Redlands Symphony's concert hall, the Memorial Chapel at the University of Redlands, is conveniently located for residents of San Bernardino, Riverside, Victorville, Palm Springs, Temecula, Escondido, Los Angeles, and surrounding areas. The organization invites the community to experience the thrill of live performances, such as the \"Celebrating America\" concert, which features a vibrant array of American music, including works by William Grant Still, Aaron Copland, Joan Tower, and the Coltrane-inspired John Adams' Saxophone Concerto.\n\nFor more information on upcoming concerts, educational programs, or to get involved with the Redlands Symphony Association, individuals can visit their website or contact them at 909.587.5565.