Riverside County Philharmonic Association Inc

The Mission of the Riverside County Philharmonic is to advance the enjoyment and appreciation of symphonic music to the diverse communities in the Inland Southern California region through performances and innovative programs that challenge, educate, enrich, and entertain.

Established in 1959 as the Riverside Symphony, the orchestra’s debut concert took place April 7, 1959 at Ramona High School and was a sell-out.  The Philharmonic has been delighting its audiences ever since with performances of well known masterworks and newer compositions. 

The orchestra has been acclaimed by local and out-of-town critics for compelling performances and for its unique programming and exceptional roster of guest soloists. On several occasions, reviewers have dubbed the Philharmonic: “Best orchestra in Southern California.” 

The orchestra performs Saturday evening concerts in the beautifully restored Fox Performing Arts Center in Riverside.  The orchestra also appears throughout the region, including Cerritos, the Ramona Bowl, Lake Elsinore, Fallbrook, Rancho Cucamonga, and Temecula.  It also performs at the annual Concert for Heroes at Riverside’s National Cemetery as a part of 4th of July observances. 

Through its Adventures in Music program the Philharmonic introduces local students to symphonic music.  Its Heartstrings program makes tickets available to persons who do not have the means to attend a concert but would derive great benefit from the experience.

The Philharmonic is a 501c(3) organization and depends on season ticket sales as well as donations, program sponsorships and grants from individuals and institutions to produce its concerts and community programs.