The Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra

==Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra== The '''Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra''' (CCCO), established in the late 1970s, is a prominent musical ensemble based in Contra Costa County, California. The orchestra gained significant recognition when the Lesher Center for the Arts was inaugurated in Walnut Creek in 1990, and the CCCO was invited to become the resident chamber orchestra at this prestigious venue. With a history spanning over four decades, the orchestra has been steadfast in its commitment to delivering high-quality musical performances that encompass a wide range of dynamic works. ===History=== The CCCO's history is marked by its continuous effort to bring music to various parts of Contra Costa County. Beyond its regular five-concert season at the Lesher Center, the orchestra extends its reach to East Contra Costa County, offering affordable performances at the historic El Campanil Theatre in Antioch. The orchestra is also known for its festive holiday performances, which include annual renditions of Handel's ''Messiah'', in collaboration with the City of San Ramon and the First Presbyterian Church of Concord. The ensemble is notable for its diverse group of musicians, which includes individuals ranging from their late teens to the 80s. The orchestra's members come from various walks of life, including music teachers, students, and professionals from a spectrum of fields such as law, engineering, and healthcare. These musicians are united by their passion for music, and although they come from primarily Contra Costa County, they perform not for monetary compensation but for the joy and fulfillment that comes from collective rehearsal and performance. ===Mission=== The mission of the Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra is multifaceted, aiming to enrich the cultural landscape of the community through music. The orchestra's goals are centered on: * Presenting professional-quality orchestral, chamber, and solo performances at an accessible price point. * Offering amateur musicians of all ages the opportunity to perform within a high-quality community orchestra setting. * Encouraging student participation and attendance at performances, fostering a love for music among young audiences. * Supporting contemporary composers by premiering new works and providing a platform for these compositions to be heard by the community. * Showcasing local, established soloists during each concert season, highlighting the talent within the region. * Performing a diverse repertoire that includes works from all historical periods and various cultures, ranging from well-known masterpieces to rarely-heard compositions, as well as regional and world premieres. The Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra remains a vital part of the county's cultural fabric, dedicated to maintaining a tradition of musical excellence and community engagement.