History and Mission

Our Mission

San Diego Symphony Orchestra – Changing Lives Through Music

The San Diego Symphony, through unquestionable commitment to the highest levels of artistic achievement, seeks to elevate human potential by providing a shared sense of pride and belonging to something bigger than any of us can achieve alone. We offer audiences the wonder of live music and transformative learning experiences that develop an understanding and passion for the arts. To ensure we are an enduring force in the region we commit to fiscal responsibility. We serve and shape the culture of the region, by being for all and with all, the musical heart of San Diego.

Strive: Always the Best

Learn: Creative, Expressive, Curious

Reach: Music for Everyone

Ignite: Spark Passion

An Introduction

The San Diego Symphony Orchestra performed its first concert on December 6, 1910. In the 100-plus years since its inception, the SDSO has become one of the leading orchestras in the United States and was designated a Tier 1 Orchestra by the League of American Orchestras in 2010. It is committed to providing musical experiences of superior quality for the greater San Diego community and beyond. Through a rich mixture of innovative and educational programming designed to appeal to all ages and cultures, the Symphony makes music an integral part of the cultural and intellectual fabric of Southern California, valued by and relevant to all its residents. The Music Director of the San Diego Symphony is Rafael Payare. The Principal Guest Conductor is Edo de Waart, and Jahja Ling serves as Conductor Laureate.

The Orchestra offers a wide range of concert experiences and performs more than 140 concerts each year. The SDSO’s performances at the Jacobs Music Center and beyond include:

Jacobs Masterworks offers traditional classical repertoire and features guest artists such as Joshua Bell, Lang Lang and Gil Shaham.

Broadway @ The Jacobs focuses on Broadway hits and the Great American Song