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San Bernardino Today
By the People, for the People
San Bernardino Symphony Kicks Off 97th Season with 'American Voices'
The orchestra's 2026 program celebrates the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra is launching its 97th season with a concert titled 'American Voices: Lift Every Voice and Sing!' on February 21. The performance will feature music by iconic American composers such as Duke Ellington, George Gershwin, and Florence Price, and will include vocalists Dedrick Bonner and the Singers of Soul. The orchestra's 2026 season is designed by Music Director Anthony Parnther to honor the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, with additional concerts showcasing the 'genius of American composers' throughout the year.
Why it matters
The San Bernardino Symphony's programming for its 97th season reflects a broader trend of arts organizations celebrating American history and culture, particularly in the lead-up to the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding. By highlighting the contributions of diverse American composers, the orchestra aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of the country's musical heritage.
The details
The season-opening concert on February 21 will feature works by Duke Ellington, George Gershwin, Scott Joplin, Winton Marsalis, Florence Price, Richard Smallwood, and William Grant Still. The program is designed to 'celebrate the musical contributions of iconic composers from classically inspired orchestral pieces to contemporary works,' according to Music Director Anthony Parnther. The orchestra will also present concerts featuring its new Chamber Sextet, a patriotic 'America the Beautiful' outdoor event, a jazz concert, and its annual holiday performance.
- The San Bernardino Symphony's 2026 season opens on February 21.
- The orchestra's annual 'America the Beautiful' concert will take place on June 20.
- The season will conclude with the orchestra's holiday concert on December 12.
The players
Anthony Parnther
The music director of the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra, who recently signed a new three-year contract and made a personal gift of $100,000 to help ensure the orchestra's sustainability.
Dedrick Bonner
A vocalist who will perform with the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra at the 'American Voices: Lift Every Voice and Sing!' concert on February 21.
Singers of Soul
A vocal group that will perform with the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra at the 'American Voices: Lift Every Voice and Sing!' concert on February 21.
What they’re saying
“In 2026, we will begin with 'American Voices: Lift Every Voice and Sing!,' which will celebrate the musical contributions of iconic composers from classically inspired orchestral pieces to contemporary works. Then, throughout the year, we will continue to shine a spotlight on the genius of American composers.”
— Anthony Parnther, Music Director, San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra (redlandsdailyfacts.com)
“My donation is given in honor of all those who value the arts in the Inland Empire to help to ensure our region can maintain the world-class level of creative artistic expression it deserves. In place until we reach our historic 100th year, it is given as a matching gift to encourage others to support the symphony and therefore, it is my sincere hope, inspire a more profound local culture of philanthropy.”
— Anthony Parnther, Music Director, San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra (redlandsdailyfacts.com)
What’s next
The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra's 2026 season will continue with a concert featuring its new Chamber Sextet on May 15, followed by the annual 'America the Beautiful' outdoor concert on June 20 and a jazz concert on September 5. The season will conclude with the orchestra's annual holiday concert on December 12.
The takeaway
The San Bernardino Symphony's programming for its 97th season reflects a broader trend of arts organizations celebrating American history and culture, particularly in the lead-up to the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding. By highlighting the contributions of diverse American composers, the orchestra aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of the country's musical heritage and inspire a greater culture of local philanthropy to support the arts.
