Established in 1959 as the Riverside Symphony, the community orchestra’s debut concert was held on April 7, 1959 at Ramona High School. It was a sell-out. The Philharmonic has been delighting its audiences ever since with performances of well-known masterworks, newer compositions and world premieres.

Today, the orchestra is comprised of top talent of professional musicians who perform for film, television and soundtracks. The orchestra has been acclaimed by local and out-of-town critics for compelling performances, its unique programming and exceptional roster of guest soloists.

Most concerts are performed in the state-of-the-art concert hall at Riverside City College’s Henry W. Coil Sr. and Alice Edna Coil School for the Arts in downtown Riverside. The orchestra also appears throughout the region, including the Ramona Bowl, Lake Elsinore, Fallbrook, Lake Arrowhead, and Temecula. The Riverside Philharmonic is proud to perform at the annual patriotic Concert for Heroes at Riverside National Cemetery as part of Independence Day observances.

Riverside Philharmonic is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.