North State Symphony Tickets

Music

The North State Symphony is a professional orchestra that performs classical music throughout Northern California, including the cities of Chico and Redding. Although the orchestra also plays contemporary and pops concerts, it has made significant contributions to the culture of classical music in the region by presenting high-quality performances of works by composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and Tchaikovsky.

Classical music as an art form has evolved over centuries, with different periods characterized by specific compositional techniques, styles, and aesthetics. The North State Symphony's repertoire covers a range of musical periods, from the Baroque era (1600-1750) to the 20th century. However, certain features distinguish classical music from other genres, such as popular, folk, or jazz. These include:

1. Use of acoustic instruments: Classical music is typically played by orchestras or chamber ensembles consisting of string, wind, brass, and percussion instruments. Unlike electronic or amplified sounds found in many other styles, classical music emphasizes the beauty and complexity of acoustic sounds, creating rich sonorities through intricate melodies, harmonies, and counterpoint.

2. Structure and form: Classical music is often noted for its strict formal structures, based on themes, variations, and contrasting sections. Many pieces follow traditional forms, such as the sonata, concerto, or symphony, which are characterized by specific movements, tempos, and tonal relationships among parts.

3. Emphasis on technique and expression: Classical music demands a high level of technical excellence from musicians, who must master complex scores, execute intricate runs, and maintain precise intonation and rhythm. However, classical music also values emotional depth and expressiveness, requiring performers to convey the nuances of style, phrasing, and interpretation that give life to the written notes.

The North State Symphony endeavors to showcase these essential aspects of classical music by selecting a variety of works that illustrate different styles, periods, and cultures. For example, the orchestra may perform a Baroque concerto by Vivaldi, featuring soloists playing harpsichord, violin, or cello, which highlights the virtuosity and ornamentation typical of that era. Alternatively, the orchestra may present a Romantic symphony by Schumann or Mahler, characterized by lush harmonies, dramatic melodies, and expressive contrasts between sections.

In addition to traditional orchestral works, the North State Symphony often collaborates with guest artists, composers, and community groups to expand the scope of its repertoire and engage audiences in new ways. For instance, the orchestra may premiere a contemporary composition by a local composer or perform a pops concert featuring movie themes, Broadway hits, or jazz standards.

Overall, the North State Symphony's commitment to classical music reflects not only a respect for tradition but also a belief in the enduring value and relevance of this art form. By bringing together professional musicians, emerging talents, and diverse communities, the orchestra seeks to enrich the cultural fabric of Northern California and inspire audiences to explore the beauty and power of classical music.