Who we are We are musicians who come together to rehearse and perform orchestral music. We're unique among "community orchestras" because we accept players with a wide range of skill levels, from perhaps "high-school level" to near "professional." If you play an instrument and you like classical music, you're welcome to talk to us about joining!

Our history

For fifteen years, the Hewlett-Packard Symphony Orchestra offered a friendly environment for musicians at various skill levels to rehearse and perform. Though the group started within HP, community members were always welcome to participate. The HPSO no longer exists, but many of its members now play in the South Bay Philharmonic.

Our atmosphere

Though we strive to provide the best level of performance possible, we have offer a low-stress and welcoming environment for all members. (Well, maybe there are one or two exceptions... but really!) Here are some comments from our members:

"The orchestra members are kind and encouraging which makes it easy,
for someone who is new to an orchestra, to learn and grow."

"If it weren't for SBP, I wouldn't be playing now."

"I feel inspired without feeling overwhelmed."

We prepare two to three "concert sets" per year. Each concert set involves perhaps five or six full-orchestra rehearsals on Monday evenings, preceded by a few weeks of strings-only rehearsals, and then one or two concerts.

Our leadership

Read about our unusual "split leadership" (Music Director / Conductor) leadership here.

How to join

It's easy! See this page for info on joining the South Bay Philharmonic.