Santa Barbara Symphony Unveils 70th Anniversary Season

The Santa Barbara Symphony is pleased to announce its 2022/23 70th anniversary season.  The Symphony, under the leadership of Music & Artistic Director Nir Kabaretti, an internationally recognized conductor who lives in Santa Barbara, has curated an expansive season that weaves community, collaboration, and cultural traditions into a nine-month musical journey that is uniquely Santa Barbara. 

The Symphony’s 70th anniversary season highlights include the return of Carmina Burana, a world premiere of an Elmer Bernstein score, a tribute to the legendary John Williams, creative artistic collaborations with the Ensemble Theatre Company and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, in addition to a stellar lineup of internationally renowned musicians scheduled to appear with the orchestra. (View the entire concert season here.)

“It has been an honor to help define and shape the Santa Barbara Symphony over the past sixteen years of our history when we have worked with passion and enthusiasm to reflect and draw upon the treasures of our community,” shared Kabaretti. “Now more than ever, traditional symphonic music is inspired and influenced by diversity, culture, and an expansive range of contemporary musical genres. Jazz, Latin, pop, film scores, theater, and even the spoken word art form of Chumash descent are integrated into this season’s repertoire while celebrating The Symphony’s traditional essence. I can’t wait to share this journey with you!”

“The Symphony employs some of the most sought-after orchestral musicians on the West Coast, draws from a deep pool of globally recognized composers and guest artists, and nurtures rich, meaningful collaborations with fellow leading arts organizations,” Kathryn R Martin, President, and CEO of the Santa Barbara Symphony. “As we enter this milestone year, the Symphony’s purpose is stronger than ever as we deliver on our mission to create joy, connection, and impact through symphonic music for the next 70 years!”

Celebrate the Symphony’s 70th anniversary this season! All performances will take place live, in person at the Granada Theatre. Season subscriptions are on sale now with packages starting as low as $112 for a four-concert package, and $184 for a full seven-concert package. Two “One-Night-Only” events are available for subscribers to purchase:  “New Year’s Eve with The Symphony” and “An Evening with Sinatra.”  Single tickets go on sale on September 1, 2022. For subscriptions and ticket information visit www.TheSymphony.org or call 805-898-9386. 

About The Santa Barbara Symphony

Now in its 72nd year, The Santa Barbara Symphony delivers artistic excellence, outstanding music education stewardship and programming, and community collaboration – all through symphonic music. Under the artistic leadership of Maestro Nir Kabaretti as Music & Artistic Director since 2006, The Symphony is one of the region’s premier cultural institutions. Through his charismatic leadership, 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, bringing joy, engagement, and connection remain steadfast pillars of its mission and were evident in the organization’s ability to thrive during the pandemic including the historic announcement that board chair Janet Garufis and President & CEO Kathryn R Martin join Nir Kabaretti in making a five-year commitment to serve in their roles. For more information, visit TheSymphony.org.

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