InConcert Sierra

About InConcert Sierra InConcert Sierra is a prominent cultural organization based in Nevada County, known for presenting exceptional classical and choral performances that enrich the region's cultural life. With a mission to inspire and offer a welcoming community for music appreciation, InConcert Sierra also provides a range of educational opportunities for both youth and adults. ### History InConcert Sierra has a storied history that dates back to its original founding in 1946 as the Twin Cities Concert Association (TCCA). The association was established at a meeting at the historic Bret Harte Inn in downtown Grass Valley, under the auspices of the Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce. The founding vision was to create a concert series featuring renowned professional musicians while also prioritizing musical exposure for children—a value that remains central to the organization's purpose today. The TCCA quickly garnered significant community support, amassing over 1,100 members within its initial months. The inaugural concert took place at the Grass Valley Veteran’s Memorial Building on October 10, 1946, headlined by Charles Kullman, a noted tenor from the San Francisco Opera. His performance was met with such enthusiasm that he famously remarked on his preference for singing in Grass Valley over Vienna. Despite a lack of historical records for a period of over a dozen years, the organization re-emerged in the 1960s and underwent various transformations. These ranged from presenting larger concerts to focusing on chamber ensemble presentations. In 1994, Ken Hardin was brought on to conduct the TCCA's newly formed community Orchestra Panache. Hardin ascended to the role of artistic director in 1999, a position he holds to this day. In 2008, he also became the founding music director/conductor of the InConcert Sierra Master Chorale, an auditioned chorus that performs biannually with the InConcert Orchestra. In a strategic move to enhance marketing efficiency and reflect its expanded geographical reach, the TCCA was rebranded as InConcert Sierra in 2010. This name change marked a new era for the organization, which has since grown into a cherished community asset for Nevada County and its surrounding areas. ### Facilities and Resources InConcert Sierra is the proud owner of a two-manual French harpsichord, meticulously handcrafted and donated by the late Scott Mackley, a local resident. Additionally, through community contributions, the organization has acquired a Grotrian 9-foot Concert Grand Piano. ### Venues The organization's programs are primarily hosted at the Seventh-day Adventist Church and in various private homes within the community. These venues are selected for their superior acoustical qualities and the intimate atmosphere they provide, which is deemed more appropriate for chamber music—echoing the settings of the drawing rooms where this genre was initially performed. The Seventh-day Adventist Church, in particular, is favored for its comfortable seating, exceptional acoustics, and hospitable spaces for both audiences and performers. InConcert Sierra continues to make history with each concert and event, contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry of Nevada County and fostering a love for classical and choral music among its residents.