Best Places To Get Your Classical Music Fix In The South Bay

Classical music never goes out of style, as its soothing melodies and established cultural history almost guarantee its revered status. Contrary to what many may think of as an elitist musical preference, classical music lovers cross all economic levels and come from every walk of life. Here are five places in the South Bay to satisfy your classical music cravings.

Palo Alto Philharmonic
Cubberley Community Center
4000 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
(650) 329-2418
www.paphil.org

The Palo Alto Philharmonic is dedicated to encouraging everyone possible to appreciate serious contemporary and classical music. Orchestra members, as well as those in the audience, come from all over the Bay Area to make and enjoy music together. Four orchestra concerts form the backbone of the Philharmonic season, along with two Chamber Concerts and a Family Concert. The 2012-2013 Concert Season is the Palo Alto Philharmonic's 25^th season. The extensive list of the season's performances and the musicians highlighted form an impressive roster of musical talent. Visit the website for complete information on concerts and musical services.

Palo Alto Adult School
50 Embarcadero Road
Palo Alto, CA 94301
(650) 329-3752
www.paadultschool.org

Palo Alto Adult School believes education is life and promotes that philosophy in its schedule of class offerings. Teachers at the school are all professional educators and many are credentialed teachers. The music program at Palo Alto Adult School allows you to play virtually any instrument you choose. The school program is home to the Peninsula Symphonic Band and concerts are scheduled each quarter. Come and experience performing in this fully instrumental band of experienced wind and mallet-rhythm percussion players; percussionists and tubists are especially needed. At the end of each quarter, a concert is given, and this summer it takes place on August 11. Applicants for the band must email or call the band instructor, (408) 910-1830, before attending the first band practice. The six-week class begins on July 1. See the website for further class information and to register.

Related: Best Places to Discover New Music On The Peninsula

Stanford Symphony Orchestra
Orchestral Studies Office
Braun Music Center, Room 110A
Stanford University
Palo Alto, CA
(650) 725-2694
www.stanford.edu

The Stanford Symphony Orchestra is the largest on-campus student music organization and is supported by the Stanford University Music Department and the Associated Students of Stanford University (ASSU). While priority is given to Stanford students to become members of the orchestra, membership is open to community residents as well. Becoming part of the orchestra is a highlight for part-time musicians to follow their musical dreams and connect with the lure of the symphony. The SSO presents approximately six concert programs each season and often collaborates with world-renowned artists, and also performs jointly with other groups. Visit the website to learn more about concert performances and audition opportunities.

Fortnightly Music Club
Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium
1313 Newell Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
(650) 329-2366
www.fortnightlymusicclub.org

Founded more than a century ago, the Fortnightly Music Club is made up of many professional musicians and music lovers who regularly meet to share and enjoy live classical music. The club's concerts are free to the public and held at the Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium. Having celebrated its 100^th anniversary in 2008, the Fortnightly Music Club continues to be a vital part of the Bay Area music culture. Visit the website for detailed information on history, concerts, membership and more.

Winchester Orchestra of San Jose
San Jose, CA
(408) 866-5302
See concert schedule
www.winchestraorchestra.com

The Winchestra Orchestra of San Jose is a proud local effort dedicated to creating opportunities for classical music to be performed and heard in the San Jose area. Music director Henry Mollicone, who is also a professor at Notre Dame de Namur University in Belmont, brings his prestigious, creative and educational talents to the orchestra. All musicians are volunteers and must have some expertise with their instruments and audition to be in the orchestra. Season concerts are held in the San Jose area, and tickets can be purchased at the orchestra site. They are also available at the door prior to the concerts. Visit the website for further information.

Related: Best Vocal Groups On The Peninsula

Melanie Graysmith is a writer, artist and educator based in San Francisco. She writes on adult education, art and lifestyle topics, and enjoys writing short stories and poetry. She is also a member of an independent filmmaking group. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.