Santa Barbara Symphony Orchestra

The Santa Barbara Symphony is a distinguished cultural institution that has been an integral part of the Santa Barbara County's artistic community since its inception in 1953. Founded on the belief that a special city deserves a special orchestra, the Symphony has a rich history of providing high-quality musical experiences and is renowned for its artistic excellence.\n\nThe Symphony's first concert took place on December 12, 1953, at the Lobero Theatre, conducted by Belgian cellist Adolphe Frezin. Over the years, the Symphony has seen continuous growth and artistic development. By 1961, under the direction of its first full-time Music Director, Erno Daniel (1960-1967), the orchestra expanded its performances to the Granada Theatre. Daniel's tenure was followed by Ronald Ondrejka (1967-1979), who led the orchestra through twelve seasons of artistic improvement.\n\nIn 1976, the Symphony moved to the newly renovated Arlington Theatre, marking a new chapter with a performance featuring Benny Goodman. The Symphony has since collaborated with numerous internationally recognized soloists, including Mstislav Rostropovich, Hilary Hahn, and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, as well as renowned violinists Augustin Hadelich, Nina Bodnar, and Gilles Apap. The orchestra has also premiered works by contemporary composers such as Sergio Assad, Jennifer Higdon, Aaron Jay Kernis, Luis Bacalov, and others.\n\nSubsequent conductors, including Frank Collura (1979-1984) and Varujan Kojian (1985-1993), contributed significantly to the Symphony's growth, with Kojian's tenure marking the maturation of the orchestra into one of the country's most respected regional ensembles. Gisèle Ben-Dor (1994-2006) further elevated the Symphony's profile through acclaimed recordings.\n\nIn 2006, Nir Kabaretti was appointed Music Director, and in 2008, his role expanded to Artistic Director. Kabaretti's leadership has been instrumental in strengthening the Symphony's status as a leading arts organization, fostering collaborations with local arts institutions, and emphasizing innovative programming. Under his guidance, the Symphony has enhanced its focus on music education, creating a continuum of integrated programs for music students from elementary school through college.\n\nThe Santa Barbara Symphony is committed to its mission of enriching the lives of residents through exceptional musical performances and to inspiring a passion for symphonic music in future generations. With a vision to deepen its roots and expand its impact, the Symphony ensures that all community members have access to its programs and works towards building a financial foundation that supports artistic risk-taking and excellence.\n\nThe organization is located at 1330 State Street, Suite 102, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, and can be contacted through its Ticket & Customer Services at 805 898-9386 or via email at info@thesymphony.org. The Symphony is supported by a family of donors and encourages the community to contribute to keeping the arts alive in Santa Barbara.