2020|2021 OCO Virtual Season
We are still here…
Despite the current pandemic our members are continuing to find ways to perform together and make music virtually. This season we begin with optimism that we can continue to play as a group and focus our efforts on larger-scale orchestra music, under safe conditions. We ask everyone to take care and act with kindness, understanding, and generosity as we face these difficult times. We will revisit and reschedule rehearsals and live performances based on the guidance of the Alameda County Public Health Department. Please visit this website for current information and official updates.
We won't be locked down forever. To learn more about our orchestra, our background and our goals for these times and beyond, read on.
We won't be locked down forever. To learn more about our orchestra, our background and our goals for these times and beyond, read on.
Who we are
Our Vision
In the heart of Oakland, for the heart of Oakland.
Mission Statement
The Oakland Civic Orchestra strives to be a reflection of the city we call home: diverse, vibrant and welcoming to all. Founded in 1992, our members are dedicated amateur and semi-professional musicians united by our passion for inspiring, enriching and entertaining our community through high-quality performances that are free and open to the public. The orchestra is committed to supporting the artistic growth of our members, the development of young artists and composers, and exploring the role that music can play in building a more just and peaceful society. Our programming prioritizes composers who have been historically marginalized alongside ambitious works from the orchestral canon.
History
Martha Stoddard, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor, has led and developed the Oakland Civic Orchestra since 1997. Under her leadership, OCO has grown from 20 members up to an ensemble of approximately 60 members. The orchestra was founded in 1992 by Enric Zappa through the City of Oakland Department of Parks and Recreation Cultural Arts Division.
In the heart of Oakland, for the heart of Oakland.
Mission Statement
The Oakland Civic Orchestra strives to be a reflection of the city we call home: diverse, vibrant and welcoming to all. Founded in 1992, our members are dedicated amateur and semi-professional musicians united by our passion for inspiring, enriching and entertaining our community through high-quality performances that are free and open to the public. The orchestra is committed to supporting the artistic growth of our members, the development of young artists and composers, and exploring the role that music can play in building a more just and peaceful society. Our programming prioritizes composers who have been historically marginalized alongside ambitious works from the orchestral canon.
History
Martha Stoddard, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor, has led and developed the Oakland Civic Orchestra since 1997. Under her leadership, OCO has grown from 20 members up to an ensemble of approximately 60 members. The orchestra was founded in 1992 by Enric Zappa through the City of Oakland Department of Parks and Recreation Cultural Arts Division.
OCO Concert VIDEOS
Please visit our three YouTube playlists to view
OCO performances on video:
NEW! Virtual performances recorded at home: OCO "virtual performances"
OCO short list of favorites: OCO "greatest hits"
Complete video playlist from our rich history: OCO playlist on YouTube
OCO performances on video:
NEW! Virtual performances recorded at home: OCO "virtual performances"
OCO short list of favorites: OCO "greatest hits"
Complete video playlist from our rich history: OCO playlist on YouTube
OCO Calendar
2020-2021 Season Events
Under Construction
Martha Stoddard, music director
Christine Brandes, assistant conductor
Martha Stoddard, music director
Christine Brandes, assistant conductor
Sunday, April 25 2021 @ 4:00 PM
Set 3: Earth Day (April 22)
Concert TBA
Free concert (donations welcomed)
Martha Stoddard, music director
Christine Brandes, assistant conductor
Commission Composer TBA: Earth Day - Climate Change Premiere
Set 3: Earth Day (April 22)
Concert TBA
Free concert (donations welcomed)
Martha Stoddard, music director
Christine Brandes, assistant conductor
Commission Composer TBA: Earth Day - Climate Change Premiere
SUPPORT THE ARTS in OAKLAND
The Bay Area is a wonderful place but it can be an expensive place for the arts to flourish. Oakland Civic Orchestra is facing a significant rise in costs next season. Please help us, if you can, to continue providing free concerts in Oakland.
We accept donations in many forms including cash, check, and on our new Go Fund Me page.
The Oakland Civic Orchestra is grateful for your support and generosity!
We accept donations in many forms including cash, check, and on our new Go Fund Me page.
The Oakland Civic Orchestra is grateful for your support and generosity!
