North State Symphony

The North State Symphony (NSS) is a professional, regional orchestra that serves the communities of Chico, Redding, and the broader Northern California area. Established to provide high-quality classical music performances, the North State Symphony has become a cultural cornerstone in the region, offering a diverse range of concerts and educational programs. The NSS's concert repertoire includes a Masterworks Concert Series, which features performances such as "Latin Fireworks: Mariachi Meets the Symphony," "The Four Seasons," "Haydn’s Drumroll," and pieces by composers like Rachmaninoff and Dvorak. The orchestra also presents special events like the 2023 Youth Concerts and the annual Holiday POPS Concert, which cater to a wide audience and provide festive musical experiences. A significant part of the NSS's mission is to engage with young audiences and the community. This is exemplified by their annual youth concerts, which in 2023 included a unique element where every musical selection was either written by, for, or about young people. These concerts were presented in Redding at the Cascade Theatre and in Chico at the Laxson Auditorium. The programming was specifically tailored to different age groups, with a Little Ones Concert for preschoolers and a program for elementary-grade children as part of the Field Trip Series. NSS Resident Conductor Dwayne Corbin leads these youth-focused performances, demonstrating the organization's commitment to fostering a love of music in the next generation. The concerts welcome both school classes and families, making classical music accessible and enjoyable for children and their parents. Beyond the youth concerts, the North State Symphony also made a special appearance at Oroville’s State Theatre, presenting a concert that appealed to music lovers of all ages. This concert featured a range of music, including the very first symphony composed by Wolfgang Mozart at the age of 8 and Francis Poulenc’s music for "The Story of Babar." The North State Symphony is supported by various community organizations, including the Chico Guild and the League of Redding, which contribute to the orchestra's sustainability and growth. The NSS also encourages community involvement through opportunities such as Young Artist Auditions, where aspiring musicians can showcase their talents. The orchestra's leadership includes Music Director Scott Seaton and a dedicated Board and Regents, alongside a professional staff that ensures the smooth operation of the organization. The North State Symphony remains a vital part of the Northern California arts scene, enriching lives through the power of music and providing opportunities for cultural engagement and education.