36th Season · 2026–27
Full orchestra, up close
San Francisco’s community orchestra, with musicians from across the Bay Area. Four concerts each season in intimate venues under Music Director Stephen Paulson.
Tickets $15 – $35
Your gift keeps the music playing
Ticket sales cover only about 40% of what each concert costs. Gifts from listeners like you pay for guest soloists, sheet music, instruments, and rehearsal space.
Our musicians volunteer their time and pay dues to play. Your gift does the rest.
Symphony Parnassus is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit; gifts are tax-deductible.
What your gift covers
$50
Rents the bass drum for a concert
$150
Brings in a professional player for one rehearsal
$300
Rents our rehearsal space for an evening
$600
Covers a guest soloist’s fee
MUSIC DIRECTOR
Stephen Paulson
Stephen Paulson has been Music Director of Symphony Parnassus since 1998. He retired in 2026 after 49 years with the San Francisco Symphony, including 46 as Principal Bassoon, and is longtime Professor of Bassoon at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
“The best of the Bay Area’s community musicians”
Michael Tilson Thomas, Music Director Laureate, San Francisco Symphony
Get Involved
Our musicians include teachers, students, doctors, retirees, and many more. There’s a place for you too, on stage or behind the scenes.
Join the Orchestra
Interested in joining us? See current openings and how auditions work.