The ensemble typically includes between 40 and 50 musicians, representing all sections of the orchestra: strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Its members come from diverse professional and personal backgrounds, including educators, students, healthcare professionals, retirees, and individuals from various other fields. This diversity is further reflected in the wide age range of participants, spanning from high school students to musicians in their 80s.
The Symphony presents three formal concerts each year at the Ross Ragland Theater, in addition to a free outdoor concert held at the end of the summer. Musicians rehearse weekly in preparation for these performances, demonstrating a strong commitment to artistic excellence.
This Season's Programming
This season's programming highlights both variety and accessibility. The fall concert, "Fall Into Winter," featured an eclectic selection of pieces celebrating the transition from autumn into the winter holiday season.
The winter concert, "Fairytales and Fantasies," held on March 8, delighted audiences with music from beloved works such as The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Wicked, Encanto, How to Train Your Dragon, Frozen, and Hansel and Gretel. The event was especially family-friendly, offering free admission to children aged twelve and under when accompanied by an adult, and was both well attended and warmly received.
The Spring Concert — Honoring the Symphony's History
The upcoming spring concert on May 9 will celebrate the rich history of the Klamath Symphony while honoring its past conductors. Originally founded in the 1970s as the Plum Ridge Symphony, the organization has benefited from the leadership of numerous conductors over the years.
The current conductor, Christopher Benjamin, has led the Symphony since 2019. He joined the Klamath Basin in 2016 and serves as a music educator at Henley High School, where he directs choirs, orchestra, and drama.
The spring program will feature guest appearances by former conductors Steve Mitchell and Dan Conrad, each returning to conduct selections of personal significance. Although Brent Hakanson is unable to attend, his contributions to the Symphony's legacy will also be celebrated.