The Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra in California announced that it is shuttering the ensemble permanently, following a board vote in April to suspend operations for the 2017-18 season, when the organization’s prospects were reviewed. Music Director Heiichiro Ohyama led the orchestra’s final 2016-17 concert on May 16. Founded in 1978 by conducting student Jeffrey Evans, the ensemble was originally a community orchestra that performed in coffee houses and libraries. With the appointment of Ohyama as music director in 1983, the ensemble’s status grew. Current and former SBCO musicians perform with the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Opera, Pacific Symphony, and Santa Barbara Symphony. Recent initiatives included “Classical Connections,” studying the therapeutic benefits of classical music for individuals suffering cognitive or neurological impairment, and the “Free Concert Seats for Families” program for children ages 8 to 18 and parents and guardians. SBCO Board Chair Joe Campanelli said, “This difficult decision was made after efforts to garner increased community support and seat a new board came up short. I want to personally thank all those who have supported this great orchestra over the years. If funding is available, a grand celebratory concert may be planned.”
Posted August 8, 2017
