Symphony Parnassus

Symphony Parnassus is a community-based orchestra with a rich history that dates back to 1965, originally known as the Doctors' Symphony. The ensemble was founded when a group of doctors who played in chamber groups decided to form an orchestra. Under the direction of Lyn Giovanniello, who was also a member of the string bass section, the Doctors' Symphony regularly performed concerts at the University of California Hospital throughout the 1970s.\n\nAfter a period of inactivity following the disbanding of the Doctors' Symphony, the orchestra was revived in 1989 by Jonathan Davis, a biophysics graduate student and amateur cellist. Re-established as the UCSF Orchestra and with funding from the University of California, San Francisco, the group began to perform in the UCSF Gym. The orchestra quickly expanded, drawing in a mix of amateur and professional musicians from the UCSF faculty, staff, students, and the wider community. This led to a growth in audience size and a reputation for delivering outstanding performances.\n\nFollowing Jonathan Davis's departure to Boston in 1995, Jeremy Swerling took over as music director for two years before Stephen Paulson was appointed to the role. In 1999, after financial cuts from UCSF, the orchestra reorganized as a nonprofit organization and adopted the name Symphony Parnassus, in homage to its origins in the Parnassus Heights neighborhood of San Francisco.\n\nSymphony Parnassus has since continued to thrive, drawing in a diverse group of musicians including corporate executives, IT specialists, engineers, scientists, educators, music students, and professionals. The orchestra has had the privilege of collaborating with world-renowned musicians such as pianist Robin Sutherland, violist Geraldine Walther, oboist William Bennett, and sopranos Lisa Vroman and Hope Briggs. Notable events include ballet legend Rudolph Nureyev's West Coast conducting debut with the orchestra and the premiere of John Handy's Concerto for Jazz Soloist and Orchestra.\n\nThe mission of Symphony Parnassus is to provide exceptional musical experiences for both its performers and audiences. It emphasizes the central repertoire while also promoting the work of local composers, emerging soloists, and visual artists. This commitment positions Symphony Parnassus as a unique and essential contributor to the cultural landscape of the Bay Area.