San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra season opens Feb. 21

The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra will open their 97^th performance season February 21 with the first of five performances designed by Music Director and Conductor Anthony Parnther in honor of the American Semiquincentennial.

“In 2026, we will begin with “American Voices: Lift Every Voice and Sing!” which will celebrate the musical contributions of iconic composers from classically inspired orchestral pieces to contemporary works,” explained Maestro Parnther, adding, “Then, throughout the year, we will continue to shine a spotlight on the genius of American composers.”

Parnther, who recently celebrated his sixth highly successful year with the Orchestra by signing a new three year contract, has helped to ensure the organization’s sustainability by making a personal gift of $100,000.

“My donation is given in honor of all those who value the arts in the Inland Empire to help to ensure our region can maintain the world class level of creative artistic expression it deserves. In place until we reach our historic one hundredth year, it is given as a matching gift to encourage others to support the Symphony and therefore, it is my sincere hope, inspire a more profound local culture of philanthropy,” shared Parnther.

The opening concert, scheduled for February 21, 2026 at 3  p.m. at the historic California Theatre of the Performing Arts, will feature repertoire by Ludwig van Beethoven, Duke Ellington, George Gershwin, Scott Joplin, Winton Marsalis, Florence Price, Richard Smallwood, William Grant Still and others, and will showcase the talents of vocalists Dedrick Bonner and the Singers of Soul.

Beginning this season, Symphony tickets will be available in money-saving bundles that allow patrons to pre-purchase seats for two or more concerts at a substantial discount without the requirement to be a full season subscriber. The more tickets purchased, the greater the discount, up to 35%. Same day and single purchase concert tickets are also available at $20-$100 per seat. and may be obtained online at www.sanbernardinosymphony.org or by phone at (909) 381-5388 Monday through Friday. Students, when accompanied by an adult, are always $15.

The historic California Theatre of the Performing Arts is located at 562 4^th Street in downtown San Bernardino.

Venue box office sales are planned prior to performances, but the availability of seats on concert days cannot be guaranteed.