Symphony of the Redwoods

Symphony of the Redwoods is a distinguished classical music organization that has been enriching the cultural landscape of the Mendocino Coast since its inception in 1983. Originally established as a College of the Redwoods course titled the Redwoods Chamber Orchestra, it was taught by Tyler Lincoln and Marcia Sloane. The ensemble underwent a name change in 1984 to become the Symphony of the Redwoods.\n\n===History===\nThroughout its history, the Symphony of the Redwoods has seen significant growth and development. From 1983 to 1988, the Symphony hosted 2-4 concert sets per season under the batons of conductors Tyler Lincoln, Walter Green, and Allan Pollack, often collaborating with the College of the Redwoods Chorus, directed by Carolyn Steinbuck. In 1989, Allan Pollack was appointed Music Director, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of a new era for the Symphony, which also acquired 501(c)(3) nonprofit status that same year.\n\nFrom 1989 to the present, the Symphony has expanded its offerings to include 3-4 concert sets per season. These performances have included holiday and pops concerts, Sing-Along Messiahs, and collaborations with various community choruses. The Symphony has also extended its reach beyond its initial location, performing in South Coast and Anderson Valley venues.\n\n===Opus Chamber Music Series===\nIn 1988, the Symphony introduced the Opus Chamber Music Series, which initially presented four concerts per season. This series has been instrumental in providing both local and visiting musicians with opportunities for small-ensemble performance. In 2018, the series merged with the Fort Bragg Center for the Arts, increasing its offerings to eight concerts per season. The series has featured a roster of nationally recognized soloists and ensembles, with Eva von Bahr serving as the Coordinator.\n\n===Educational Programs===\nSymphony of the Redwoods has been committed to music education, with initiatives targeting both youth and adults. Since 2001, the organization has conducted annual Children's Concerts, bringing orchestral and chamber music to local schools. From 2002 to 2010, the Symphony's Youth Programs offered various opportunities for young musicians, including the Redwood Youth Orchestra and summer string camps.\n\nThe Bring-a-Parent Program, launched in 2018, fosters intergenerational engagement by allowing students 18 years and under to attend Symphony concerts for free when accompanied by an adult. For adults, the Symphony sponsored Chamber Music Workshops from 1991 to 2009, and more recently, became the non-profit fiscal sponsor for the Navarro River String Camp. Since 2019, the Symphony has also offered pre-concert lectures to enhance the concert-going experience.\n\n===Board and Staff===\nThe Symphony of the Redwoods is overseen by a dedicated Board of Directors, including President Eva von Bahr, Vice President Abigail Rowland Strock, Secretary and Treasurer Terry Knaus, and several other board members who contribute their expertise to various aspects of the organization. The administrative staff, led by Executive Director Joanie Packard, ensures the smooth operation of the Symphony's activities and programs.\n\n===Mission===\nThe Symphony of the Redwoods is driven by a mission to provide access to high-quality classical music performances and to foster music education within the community. The organization's commitment to musical excellence has established it as a vital cultural institution on the North Coast, attracting exceptional talent and engaging audiences for nearly four decades.\n\nFor more information about the Symphony of the Redwoods, its concert schedule, educational programs, and how to support its mission, please visit the official website at symphonyoftheredwoods.org.\n\n[[Category:American Orchestras]]\n[[Category:Music Education]]\n[[Category:Non-Profit Organizations]]\n[[Category:1983 Establishments]]