FREE AUDIO PLAYER DOWNLOADS

The Santa Barbara Symphony was founded in 1953 by area musicians who came together to perform standard symphonic literature. The first conductor was Adolph Franzen, a distinguished Belgian cellist who resided in Santa Barbara. From this beginning, the Orchestra has grown into a Professional ensemble of 90 musicians.

Varujan Kojian became music director in 1985, bringing a period of unparalleled artistic achievement. André Watts, Itzhak Perlman, and Yehudi Menuhin are among the many internationally recognized musicians who have appeared with the Orchestra.
  
In the Fall of 1994, renowned conductor Gisèle Ben-Dor assumed the responsibilities of Music Director of the Santa Barbara Symphony, by unanimous request of the audiences, musicians, and board.