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Ensemble

 

The San José Chamber Orchestra (SJCO) is a classical music ensemble based in San José, California. Founded in 1991 by Barbara Day Turner, the SJCO has become a prominent fixture in the Bay Area's classical music scene, known for its innovative programming and commitment to community engagement. Barbara Day Turner, a conductor and violist, founded the SJCO with the goal of creating a professional chamber orchestra that would serve the San José community. She envisioned an ensemble that would perform a diverse range of repertoire, from Baroque to contemporary, and would collaborate with local artists and organizations to bring classical music to a wider audience. The SJCO's founding members included a mix of professional musicians and music educators, many of whom still perform with the ensemble today. Over the years, the SJCO has grown to include over 30 musicians, all of whom are highly skilled and dedicated to their craft. One of the SJCO's defining characteristics is its commitment to community engagement. From the beginning, the ensemble has sought to make classical music accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. The SJCO regularly performs in schools, community centers, and other non-traditional venues, and offers a variety of educational programs for students and adults. In addition to its community outreach efforts, the SJCO has also gained a reputation for its innovative programming. The ensemble's concerts often feature lesser-known works alongside more familiar pieces, and frequently include world premieres of new compositions. The SJCO has also collaborated with a wide range of artists and organizations, including dancers, poets, and visual artists. Over the years, the SJCO has received numerous awards and accolades for its performances and community outreach efforts. In 2005, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming, which recognizes ensembles that take risks and present innovative programming. The SJCO has also been recognized by the Silicon Valley Arts Council and the San José Mercury News, among others. Some of the SJCO's most memorable performances include its annual holiday concerts, which feature a mix of classical and popular holiday music. The ensemble has also performed with a number of renowned soloists, including pianist Jon Nakamatsu and cellist Zuill Bailey. In recent years, the SJCO has continued to expand its reach and impact. The ensemble has launched a number of new initiatives, including a program that provides free tickets to underserved communities and a series of concerts that explore the intersection of music and social justice. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the SJCO has remained committed to its mission of bringing classical music to the San José community. The ensemble has adapted to the new reality of virtual performances, offering a series of online concerts and educational programs. As the San José Chamber Orchestra looks to the future, it remains dedicated to its founding principles of community engagement, innovative programming, and artistic excellence. With its talented musicians and visionary leadership, the SJCO is sure to continue making a lasting impact on the Bay Area's classical music scene for years to come.

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