Community Invited to a Free Santa Barbara Symphony 2025/26 Season Kick-off Celebration at the Lobero Theatre

Music & Artistic Director Nir Kabaretti Hosts an Immersive Program of Live Music, Insightful Conversation, and a Special Subscription Raffle

The Santa Barbara Symphony invites the entire community to a free and festive Season Preview Kick-off Celebration on Thursday, September 18, from 4:30-6:15 PM at the historic Lobero Theatre, kicking off its milestone 73rd season celebrating Maestro Nir Kabaretti’s 20th Anniversary as Music & Artistic Director.

The program begins on the promenade at 4:30 PM, where patrons can mix & mingle, play musical instruments from the Music Van program, and speak with staff about donor and volunteer opportunities and ways to deepen their relationship with The Symphony. At 5:00 PM, Maestro Kabaretti will take the stage inside to share behind-the-scenes stories and his creative vision that inspired The Symphony’s upcoming season — including rarely featured instruments, extraordinary guest artists, and innovative programming that stretches across genres and centuries.

“This season is deeply personal to me,” said Maestro Kabaretti. “It reflects the evolution of our orchestra, our community, and my journey over the past 20 years in Santa Barbara. We’re offering bold, fresh experiences designated specifically for our 805 community, and I can’t wait to share what’s ahead.”

Principal Trombonist Dillon MacIntyre, who is a featured artist at the Mozart Requiem concert in November, will join Maestro Kabaretti onstage alongside internationally acclaimed harpist Cristina Montes Mateo, performing some stirring duos.

“Each month, October – May, more than 2,000 people gather in the Granada Theatre to feel the power of their Santa Barbara Symphony,” said Kathryn R  Martin, President & CEO.”Nir Kabaretti’s wide-ranging programs appeal to music lovers of all kinds who enjoy being moved, knowing that what they’re experiencing is being created right here in Santa Barbara, for Santa Barbara.”       

Ticket Information
The Santa Barbara Symphony officially opens its 2025/26 season with State Street Ballet on

Saturday, October 18, at 7:30 PM and Sunday, October 19, at 3:00 PM. Single tickets for concerts in October, November, and December are now on sale. All others go on sale at midnight on September 2, 2025. Season subscriptions are still available, starting at $28 per seat. For details and tickets, visit TheSymphony.org.

The Symphony’s Season Preview event is free to attend. Due to the popularity of this event, reservations are encouraged, as each entrant will be entered into a drawing for a pair of complimentary 4-series season subscriptions. Attendees may register here: bit.ly/SymphonySeasonKickoff.

About The Santa Barbara Symphony

Now in its 73rd year, The Santa Barbara Symphony delivers artistic excellence, outstanding music education stewardship and programming, and community collaboration—all through symphonic music. Under the charismatic leadership of Maestro Nir Kabaretti as Music & Artistic Director since 2006, The Symphony is one of the region’s premier cultural institutions. This globally admired conductor and Santa Barbara resident invigorates audiences and musicians alike through his passion, creativity, and vast experience. As the only music education program tied to a professional symphony orchestra in the region, The Symphony serves more than 2,000 students annually throughout Santa Barbara County. While the Symphony continues to evolve, its commitment to bringing joy, engagement, and connection remains a steadfast pillar of its mission. This dedication was especially evident during the pandemic, when the organization not only thrived but also announced a historic milestone: Board Chair Janet Garufis and President & CEO Kathryn R. Martin joined Music & Artistic Director Nir Kabaretti in making a five-year commitment to serve in their leadership roles. For more information, visit TheSymphony.org.

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