Southern California Philharmonic

==Southern California Philharmonic== The '''Southern California Philharmonic''' (SCP or SoCal Phil) is a distinguished orchestra based in Orange County, California. With a history spanning over a decade and a half, the organization has dedicated itself to presenting the great masterpieces of orchestral works to the community. The SCP is known for its commitment to musical excellence, community engagement, and support for young artists. ===History=== The orchestra was originally founded as the '''Yorba Linda Orchestra Association''' (YLOA) in 2003 by a group of musicians in Yorba Linda, California. Their inaugural concert took place on June 6, 2003, under the interim conductorship of Larry Lowder. In 2007, Dr. Robert Frelly joined as the new Conductor and Music Director, leading the orchestra through financial challenges and an international tour to China. In 2009, the organization underwent a significant rebranding to become the Southern California Philharmonic, aiming to reach a broader audience across Orange County. This change coincided with Dr. Frelly's departure and the subsequent search for a new conductor. After an 18-month audition process, Branden Muresan, a Southern California native and an award-winning musician, was appointed as the new Musical Director in 2013. The SCP has since formed new alliances, including a partnership with Corona Del Mar High School and the Tustin Area Council for the Fine Arts (TACFA), which supports the orchestra's Young Artists Showcase. The organization celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2017 under the leadership of Maestro Muresan. ===Recent Developments=== The 2021-2022 concert season marked the SCP's 19th year, a season that was profoundly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The orchestra adapted by moving to virtual platforms for rehearsals and performances, ensuring the safety of its members and audience. Despite the challenges, the SCP continued to foster musical connections and honor its musicians, including a tribute to tuba player Gary Haendiges. The SCP looks to the future with cautious optimism, planning to hold outdoor performances and reintegrate in-person events as safety allows. The SCP also announced the 2021 Young Artists Competition, encouraging the participation of talented soloists who will perform with the orchestra in the spring of 2022. ===Mission and Support=== The Southern California Philharmonic's mission is to share the joy of orchestral music with the wider community and to nurture the next generation of musicians. The organization's Board of Directors, comprising individuals with diverse knowledge and experience, guides this vision. The SCP consists of approximately 60 regular members who bring their unique talents to a variety of musical compositions. The SCP encourages public support to continue its endeavors in preserving musical appreciation and engagement in Orange County. Donations to the organization help sustain its vision and allow the SCP to present talented young artists, soloists, and orchestral musicians. ==External Links== * [Official Website of the Southern California Philharmonic] [[Category:Orchestras]] [[Category:Music of California]] [[Category:Non-profit organizations based in California]]