The Camellia Symphony–A Brief History

What is now the Camellia Symphony had a humble beginning in the fall of 1961 when Dick Surryhne (leader of the Sacramento Banjo Band for many years) began gathering a group of orchestral musicians to meet and play classical music “just for the fun of it.” Mel Wesleder led the group in these early days, and Zygmunt Darzell was the concertmaster. Dick served as General Manager. They played every Tuesday evening at Encina High School. On several occasions odd combinations of instruments showed up. Once 17 trombonists and 2 violinists turned out. The group’s first public appearance was on May 31, 1962 at the San Juan School District’s Adult Education commencement exercises. They called themselves The Potluck Symphony.  Later that summer they played at the State Fair.

Over the years CSO has changed to reflect the personalities and abilities of its conductors. Each conductor has contributed to the orchestra’s development. Walter Kerfoot had been a guest conductor in 1969 and was appointed  Music Director in 1970. The season was expanded to four concerts and these were held on Tuesday evenings at Sacramento City College. Season Tickets cost $5.00 for adults, $2.50 for students. Walter also added the free “Pop Concerts” on the lawn at American River College, and in 1974 began the Mothers Day Concerts at the Sunrise Mall, which continued for over two decades.  He engaged local soloists and invited many of the community’s choral groups from large choirs to barbershop quartets, and also a local jazz band, to participate in the orchestra’s concerts. The orchestra was rehearsing in the Band room at American River College, and some concerts were performed there.

For our 50th Anniversary Season the Camellia Symphony begins a new era of classical music with the hiring of a new music director and conductor, Dr. Christian Baldini and the start of a new performance venue, Sacrament City College: Performing Arts Center.

We’d love for you to join us for the next 50 years—they should be amazing.