An orchestra founded in 1931, the Civic is an unusual organization today, but would have been at home in olden times before orchestras became commercial enterprises.
To be heard next on June 2 (see below), the Civic welcomes string players of all levels without auditions, trusting that good intentions will prevail over book learning. Applicants, says bassist and board member Paul Grantham, "have the opportunity to decide their comfort level with the music skills required. The intention is to provide a welcoming environment where adult 'late learners' can play in a large ensemble."
The result, Grantham says, "are concerts which, though not free of mistakes, are passionate expressions of the music." Traditionally, it's standing room only, an appreciation of that passion.
As for the audience, "we attract people from diverse ethnic backgrounds and all ages,who are curious about the music. Often, this is the first time they have heard a live orchestra."
Photo by Teresa Tam
The orchestra was supported for most of its history by the city's Parks and Recreation Department, until the late 90's, when budgetary constraints eliminated the subsidy. Since then, the organization has been completely self-funding and managed by all-volunteer team.
Numerous orchestra members also play in professional groups, but even they stay with the Civic, some longer than 30 years. Each summer, the orchestra offers a "Summer Strings" workshop, a weekly get-together for anyone interested. The workshop attracts both adults and young people who don't have access to an orchestra in their school. Some participants end up playing in the full orchestra in the following season.
The concert on Sunday, starting at 1 p.m., is held in the Empire Ballroom of the Sir Francis Drake Hotel, 450 Powell St. The program includes Brahms' Academic Festival Overture, Carl Reinecke's Concerto for Flute and Orchestra (Christine Page, soloist), works by Vaughan Williams, Borodin, and Sibelius. Mancho Gonzalez conducts.