Very First Concerts: Count Me In!

SFCO’s Very First concerts are a classical series designed with the youngest listeners in mind. Each of these two interactive, 30 minute concerts feature a central theme, short selections, and fun hands-on musical activities geared toward families with young children.

SFCO concerts are always ADMISSION FREE!

RSVP’s are NOT required but it helps us to know you’re planning to come!

Very First Concerts: Count Me In!

SFCO’s Very First concerts are a classical series designed with the youngest listeners in mind. Each interactive, 30 minute concert features a central theme, short selections, and fun hands-on musical activities geared toward families with young children.

SFCO concerts are always ADMISSION FREE!

RSVP’s are NOT required but it helps us to know you’re planning to come!

Very First Concerts: Count Me In!

SFCO’s Very First concerts are a classical series designed with the youngest listeners in mind. Each of these two interactive, 30 minute concerts feature a central theme, short selections, and fun hands-on musical activities geared toward families with young children.

SFCO concerts are always ADMISSION FREE!

RSVP’s are NOT required but it helps us to know you’re planning to come!

Celebrating Robin Sharp’s 20 years with the SFCO!

Ludwig van Beethoven - Egmont Overture

Jennifer Higdon – selections from “Dance Card”

Max Bruch - Violin Concerto No. 1
Robin Sharp, violin

Join us in celebrating the amazing Robin Sharp’s twenty years as concertmaster of the SFCO. Robin’s incredible artistry and leadership have lifted the SFCO to new heights, and her beautiful violin playing has charmed audiences for decades. Robin will perform Max Bruch’s iconic Violin Concerto in G minor, one of the most beloved pieces in the violin repertoire. Featuring the virtuoso SFCO string players, Dance Card, by Grammy Award winner Jennifer Higdon, “is a celebration of the joy, lyricism and passion of a group of strings playing together! This work reflects the deep commitment that string players bring to their music making, not only in the many years of learning to play their instruments, but also in the dedication manifested in gorgeous music-making as an ensemble.” Our program opens with Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, the tragic and triumphant story of a hero’s fight against tyranny and oppression. The dramatic score has captured the imagination of listeners for centuries, becoming a symbol of the struggle for liberty and freedom.

Celebrating Robin Sharp’s 20 years with the SFCO!

Ludwig van Beethoven - Egmont Overture

Jennifer Higdon – selections from “Dance Card”

Max Bruch - Violin Concerto No. 1
Robin Sharp, violin

Join us in celebrating the amazing Robin Sharp’s twenty years as concertmaster of the SFCO. Robin’s incredible artistry and leadership have lifted the SFCO to new heights, and her beautiful violin playing has charmed audiences for decades. Robin will perform Max Bruch’s iconic Violin Concerto in G minor, one of the most beloved pieces in the violin repertoire. Featuring the virtuoso SFCO string players, Dance Card, by Grammy Award winner Jennifer Higdon, “is a celebration of the joy, lyricism and passion of a group of strings playing together! This work reflects the deep commitment that string players bring to their music making, not only in the many years of learning to play their instruments, but also in the dedication manifested in gorgeous music-making as an ensemble.” Our program opens with Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, the tragic and triumphant story of a hero’s fight against tyranny and oppression. The dramatic score has captured the imagination of listeners for centuries, becoming a symbol of the struggle for liberty and freedom.

Celebrating Robin Sharp’s 20 years with the SFCO!

Ludwig van Beethoven - Egmont Overture

Jennifer Higdon – selections from “Dance Card”

Max Bruch - Violin Concerto No. 1
Robin Sharp, violin

Join us in celebrating the amazing Robin Sharp’s twenty years as concertmaster of the SFCO. Robin’s incredible artistry and leadership have lifted the SFCO to new heights, and her beautiful violin playing has charmed audiences for decades. Robin will perform Max Bruch’s iconic Violin Concerto in G minor, one of the most beloved pieces in the violin repertoire. Featuring the virtuoso SFCO string players, Dance Card, by Grammy Award winner Jennifer Higdon, “is a celebration of the joy, lyricism and passion of a group of strings playing together! This work reflects the deep commitment that string players bring to their music making, not only in the many years of learning to play their instruments, but also in the dedication manifested in gorgeous music-making as an ensemble.” Our program opens with Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, the tragic and triumphant story of a hero’s fight against tyranny and oppression. The dramatic score has captured the imagination of listeners for centuries, becoming a symbol of the struggle for liberty and freedom.

Family Concert: Nutcracker “Sweet”

Oakland Fairyland’s beloved puppeteers team up with the SFCO for a delightful version of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic. Designed for young audiences, this production features the acrobatic antics of The Puppet Company’s miniature cast accompanied by the SFCO performing highlights from this beloved ballet. A firebreathing dragon, confetti and a show-and-tell of the different puppet types highlight this 40 minute gem. Join us for this joyful Thanksgiving Weekend tradition!

Tickets are not required! But it helps us to know that you're planning to come.

SFCO concerts are always ADMISSION FREE!

Family Concert: Nutcracker “Sweet”

Oakland Fairyland’s beloved puppeteers team up with the SFCO for a delightful version of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic. Designed for young audiences, this production features the acrobatic antics of The Puppet Company’s miniature cast accompanied by the SFCO performing highlights from this beloved ballet. A firebreathing dragon, confetti and a show-and-tell of the different puppet types highlight this 40 minute gem. Join us for this joyful Thanksgiving Weekend tradition!

Tickets are not required! But it helps us to know that you're planning to come.

SFCO concerts are always ADMISSION FREE!

Family Concert: Nutcracker “Sweet”

Oakland Fairyland’s beloved puppeteers team up with the SFCO for a delightful version of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic. Designed for young audiences, this production features the acrobatic antics of The Puppet Company’s miniature cast accompanied by the SFCO performing highlights from this beloved ballet. A firebreathing dragon, confetti and a show-and-tell of the different puppet types highlight this 40 minute gem. Join us for this joyful Thanksgiving Weekend tradition!

Tickets are not required! But it helps us to know that you're planning to come.

SFCO concerts are always ADMISSION FREE!

MainStage 2: The Revolutionary Artist
This concert is in memory of SFCO Founder
Edgar Braun and Ida Braun

Louise Farrenc – Symphony No. 3, 4th mvt.

Niccolò Paganini– Violin Concerto, 1st mvt.
Lisa Saito - violin, Debut Artist
Sponsored by Maryann Maslan

Ludwig van Beethoven – Symphony No. 7

Ring in the New Year with the SFCO and the exuberant music of three ground-breaking composers. Louise Farrenc was a concert pianist and composer who fought for women’s rights and would become the only female professor at the famed Paris Conservatoire during the 19th century. Her Symphony in G Minor sizzles with energy and drama. Rarely has there been a virtuosic performer that forever changed the direction of their instrument’s technique, as completely as Niccolò Paganini. Paganini’s virtuosity was astounding - legends surrounding his persona were numerous as many speculated that he must have made a pact with the devil himself to have been granted such talent. His 1st violin concerto will be performed by the amazing 14-year-old violinist, Lisa Saito. Our program concludes with music by a composer who would change the trajectory of classical music itself. Ludwig van Beethoven was the embodiment of the Revolutionary Artist, creating a seismic shift in the power and emotional drama of our repertoire. The 7th Symphony is as joyful and exuberant as any piece he would write - an affirmation of life, and a perfect way to lift our spirits into the new year.

MainStage 2: The Revolutionary Artist
This concert is in memory of SFCO Founder
Edgar Braun and Ida Braun

Louise Farrenc – Symphony No. 3, 4th mvt.

Niccolò Paganini– Violin Concerto, 1st mvt.
Lisa Saito - violin, Debut Artist
Sponsored by Maryann Maslan

Ludwig van Beethoven – Symphony No. 7

Ring in the New Year with the SFCO and the exuberant music of three ground-breaking composers. Louise Farrenc was a concert pianist and composer who fought for women’s rights and would become the only female professor at the famed Paris Conservatoire during the 19th century. Her Symphony in G Minor sizzles with energy and drama. Rarely has there been a virtuosic performer that forever changed the direction of their instrument’s technique, as completely as Niccolò Paganini. Paganini’s virtuosity was astounding - legends surrounding his persona were numerous as many speculated that he must have made a pact with the devil himself to have been granted such talent. His 1st violin concerto will be performed by the amazing 14-year-old violinist, Lisa Saito. Our program concludes with music by a composer who would change the trajectory of classical music itself. Ludwig van Beethoven was the embodiment of the Revolutionary Artist, creating a seismic shift in the power and emotional drama of our repertoire. The 7th Symphony is as joyful and exuberant as any piece he would write - an affirmation of life, and a perfect way to lift our spirits into the new year.

MainStage 2: The Revolutionary Artist
This concert is in memory of SFCO Founder
Edgar Braun and Ida Braun

Louise Farrenc – Symphony No. 3, 4th mvt.

Niccolò Paganini– Violin Concerto, 1st mvt.
Lisa Saito - violin, Debut Artist
Sponsored by Maryann Maslan

Ludwig van Beethoven – Symphony No. 7

Ring in the New Year with the SFCO and the exuberant music of three ground-breaking composers. Louise Farrenc was a concert pianist and composer who fought for women’s rights and would become the only female professor at the famed Paris Conservatoire during the 19th century. Her Symphony in G Minor sizzles with energy and drama. Rarely has there been a virtuosic performer that forever changed the direction of their instrument’s technique, as completely as Niccolò Paganini. Paganini’s virtuosity was astounding - legends surrounding his persona were numerous as many speculated that he must have made a pact with the devil himself to have been granted such talent. His 1st violin concerto will be performed by the amazing 14-year-old violinist, Lisa Saito. Our program concludes with music by a composer who would change the trajectory of classical music itself. Ludwig van Beethoven was the embodiment of the Revolutionary Artist, creating a seismic shift in the power and emotional drama of our repertoire. The 7th Symphony is as joyful and exuberant as any piece he would write - an affirmation of life, and a perfect way to lift our spirits into the new year.

Very First Concerts

SFCO’s Very First concerts are a classical series designed with the youngest listeners in mind. Each of these two interactive, 30 minute concerts feature a central theme, short selections, and fun hands-on musical activities geared toward families with young children.

SFCO concerts are always ADMISSION FREE!

RSVP’s are NOT required but it helps us to know you’re planning to come.

Very First Concerts

SFCO’s Very First concerts are a classical series designed with the youngest listeners in mind. Each of these two interactive, 30 minute concerts feature a central theme, short selections, and fun hands-on musical activities geared toward families with young children.

SFCO concerts are always ADMISSION FREE!

RSVP’s are NOT required but it helps us to know you’re planning to come.

Very First Concerts

SFCO’s Very First concerts are a classical series designed with the youngest listeners in mind. Each of these two interactive, 30 minute concerts feature a central theme, short selections, and fun hands-on musical activities geared toward families with young children.

SFCO concerts are always ADMISSION FREE!

RSVP’s are NOT required but it helps us to know you’re planning to come.

MainStage 3: Seeing Double
Concert Sponsors: Leon and Karen Traister

Jens Ibsen – “Scene Symphony” for string orchestra SFCO commission, with support from the NEA

Philip Glass – Concerto for Harpsichord and Orchestra; Jory Vinikour, harpsichord

Joseph Haydn – Symphony No. 49 “La Passione”

In a first for the SFCO, internationally acclaimed harpsichordist, Jory Vinikour, joins Music Director Jory Fankuchen and the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra in Philip Glass’ mesmerizing Concerto for Harpsichord and Orchestra. Mr. Vinikour brings his commanding musicianship and effortless technique to Glass’ homage to the Baroque. In another nod to the pre-Classical style, Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 49, La Passione, fuses Baroque sound and form with the dramatic Sturm and Drang movement of the 18th century in a fiery and tumultuous work. Our program opens with Scene Symphony, an SFCO commission by the brilliant young composer Jens Ibsen.

MainStage 3: Seeing Double
Concert Sponsors: Leon and Karen Traister

Jens Ibsen – “Scene Symphony” for string orchestra SFCO commission, with support from the NEA

Philip Glass – Concerto for Harpsichord and Orchestra; Jory Vinikour, harpsichord

Joseph Haydn – Symphony No. 49 “La Passione”

In a first for the SFCO, internationally acclaimed harpsichordist, Jory Vinikour, joins Music Director Jory Fankuchen and the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra in Philip Glass’ mesmerizing Concerto for Harpsichord and Orchestra. Mr. Vinikour brings his commanding musicianship and effortless technique to Glass’ homage to the Baroque. In another nod to the pre-Classical style, Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 49, La Passione, fuses Baroque sound and form with the dramatic Sturm and Drang movement of the 18th century in a fiery and tumultuous work. Our program opens with Scene Symphony, an SFCO commission by the brilliant young composer Jens Ibsen.

MainStage 3: Seeing Double
Concert Sponsors: Leon and Karen Traister

Jens Ibsen – “Scene Symphony” for string orchestra SFCO commission, with support from the NEA

Philip Glass – Concerto for Harpsichord and Orchestra; Jory Vinikour, harpsichord

Joseph Haydn – Symphony No. 49 “La Passione”

In a first for the SFCO, internationally acclaimed harpsichordist, Jory Vinikour, joins Music Director Jory Fankuchen and the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra in Philip Glass’ mesmerizing Concerto for Harpsichord and Orchestra. Mr. Vinikour brings his commanding musicianship and effortless technique to Glass’ homage to the Baroque. In another nod to the pre-Classical style, Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 49, La Passione, fuses Baroque sound and form with the dramatic Sturm and Drang movement of the 18th century in a fiery and tumultuous work. Our program opens with Scene Symphony, an SFCO commission by the brilliant young composer Jens Ibsen.

Sensory Friendly Concert

The SFCO is excited to present our third year of Sensory Friendly concerts, specifically designed with our neurodivergent community in mind.

What does that mean? ALL are welcome and every type of engagement with the music is encouraged. We’ll refrain from sudden loud sounds, our All-Star String Quartet performs at a beautifully pleasant volume, we'll have a basket of fidget toys, and the seating will create plenty of space for movement and expression.

The instruments of the string quartet will be introduced and we'll present a variety of musical styles ranging from classical gems to popular favorites. And for extra engagement, throughout the program we'll have fun, hands-on activities for those who wish to participate.

Our concerts are always Admission Free! Please RSVP so that we know you're planning to come!

Sensory Friendly Concert

The SFCO is excited to present our third year of Sensory Friendly concerts, specifically designed with our neurodivergent community in mind.

What does that mean? ALL are welcome and every type of engagement with the music is encouraged. We’ll refrain from sudden loud sounds, our All-Star String Quartet performs at a beautifully pleasant volume, we'll have a basket of fidget toys, and the seating will create plenty of space for movement and expression.

The instruments of the string quartet will be introduced and we'll present a variety of musical styles ranging from classical gems to popular favorites. And for extra engagement, throughout the program we'll have fun, hands-on activities for those who wish to participate.

Our concerts are always Admission Free! Please RSVP so that we know you're planning to come!

Sensory Friendly Concert

The SFCO is excited to present our third year of Sensory Friendly concerts, specifically designed with our neurodivergent community in mind.

What does that mean? ALL are welcome and every type of engagement with the music is encouraged. We’ll refrain from sudden loud sounds, our All-Star String Quartet performs at a beautifully pleasant volume, we'll have a basket of fidget toys, and the seating will create plenty of space for movement and expression.

The instruments of the string quartet will be introduced and we'll present a variety of musical styles ranging from classical gems to popular favorites. And for extra engagement, throughout the program we'll have fun, hands-on activities for those who wish to participate.

Our concerts are always Admission Free! Please RSVP so that we know you're planning to come!

MainStage 4: The Young Masters

Samuel-Coleridge Perkinson - Sinfonietta No. 1, 3rd mvt.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Violin Concerto No. 5, Julia Schilz violin; Klein Comp. winner; Sponsored by Maryann Maslan

Franz Schubert – Symphony No. 5

Irving Klein Competition winner, Julia Schilz, joins the SFCO in Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s joyful Violin Concerto No. 5. Mozart was only nineteen years of age when he composed this, his final violin concerto, and a piece that sits at the very pinnacle of Classical concerti. Franz Schubert was also nineteen when he penned his 5th Symphony and its connection to Mozart’s writing is more than just youthful exuberance. At the time of its composition, Schubert was particularly enthralled with his earlier counterpart, writing in his diary, "O Mozart! Immortal Mozart! What countless impressions of a brighter, better life hast thou stamped upon our souls!” The 5th Symphony pays homage to its muse both in its sunny elegance, and the smaller orchestra size Schubert would write for. Our concert opens with Samuel-Coleridge Perkinson’s lively and virtuosic Sinfonietta No. 1. A composer, conductor, and pedagogue, Perkinson was equally comfortable in a myriad of styles and genres. His Sinfonia No. 1 blends new and old, in an exciting and expertly-crafted tour de force.

MainStage 4: The Young Masters

Samuel-Coleridge Perkinson - Sinfonietta No. 1, 3rd mvt.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Violin Concerto No. 5, Julia Schilz violin; Klein Comp. winner; Sponsored by Maryann Maslan

Franz Schubert – Symphony No. 5

Irving Klein Competition winner, Julia Schilz, joins the SFCO in Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s joyful Violin Concerto No. 5. Mozart was only nineteen years of age when he composed this, his final violin concerto, and a piece that sits at the very pinnacle of Classical concerti. Franz Schubert was also nineteen when he penned his 5th Symphony and its connection to Mozart’s writing is more than just youthful exuberance. At the time of its composition, Schubert was particularly enthralled with his earlier counterpart, writing in his diary, "O Mozart! Immortal Mozart! What countless impressions of a brighter, better life hast thou stamped upon our souls!” The 5th Symphony pays homage to its muse both in its sunny elegance, and the smaller orchestra size Schubert would write for. Our concert opens with Samuel-Coleridge Perkinson’s lively and virtuosic Sinfonietta No. 1. A composer, conductor, and pedagogue, Perkinson was equally comfortable in a myriad of styles and genres. His Sinfonia No. 1 blends new and old, in an exciting and expertly-crafted tour de force.

MainStage 4: The Young Masters

Samuel-Coleridge Perkinson - Sinfonietta No. 1, 3rd mvt.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Violin Concerto No. 5, Julia Schilz violin; Klein Comp. winner; Sponsored by Maryann Maslan

Franz Schubert – Symphony No. 5

Irving Klein Competition winner, Julia Schilz, joins the SFCO in Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s joyful Violin Concerto No. 5. Mozart was only nineteen years of age when he composed this, his final violin concerto, and a piece that sits at the very pinnacle of Classical concerti. Franz Schubert was also nineteen when he penned his 5th Symphony and its connection to Mozart’s writing is more than just youthful exuberance. At the time of its composition, Schubert was particularly enthralled with his earlier counterpart, writing in his diary, "O Mozart! Immortal Mozart! What countless impressions of a brighter, better life hast thou stamped upon our souls!” The 5th Symphony pays homage to its muse both in its sunny elegance, and the smaller orchestra size Schubert would write for. Our concert opens with Samuel-Coleridge Perkinson’s lively and virtuosic Sinfonietta No. 1. A composer, conductor, and pedagogue, Perkinson was equally comfortable in a myriad of styles and genres. His Sinfonia No. 1 blends new and old, in an exciting and expertly-crafted tour de force.