Founded in 1954 as Orange County’s first music organization, the Philharmonic Society of Orange County presents performances of the highest quality and provides free music education programs to enhance the lives of Orange County audiences through music. In 1954, a group of music lovers formed an orchestra with the intent to make, enjoy, and spread the love of classical music. Now, more than 60 years later, the orchestra has evolved into the Philharmonic Society of Orange County, no longer an orchestra but strictly a music presenter—and no less dedicated to its original mission. Each season, the Philharmonic Society brings the world's most acclaimed symphony orchestras, chamber ensembles, soloists and international artists to perform in Orange County. While predominantly known for our classical music presentations, we also present in the eclectic realm with world music and multi-disciplinary performances. The Philharmonic Society's nationally recognized Youth Music Education Programs, serving K-12 students, are offered free of charge to schools, students and parents, and each year reach 160,000 children, providing them with enriching musical experiences. The Committees of the Philharmonic Society are the Society's principal fund raising and volunteer force. 800 members strong, The Committees implement and evaluate the Society's music education programs and also present a wide variety of fundraising events, including Entertaining by Design, House of Design and the Huntington Harbour Cruise of Lights®.
