Bringing breathtaking music to Santa Fe
In the summer of 1984, there was much excitement in the air for the arts in Santa Fe. Young music and theater groups were finding enthusiastic audiences. Encouraged by the energy of these youthful arts groups, a committee of musicians spearheaded by Greg Heltman gathered to consider ideas to keep symphonic music in Santa Fe.

To that end, a free public concert showcasing the wonderful talents of Northern New Mexico Musicians and express a heartfelt statement of the importance of a resident orchestra in Santa Fe was held on September 2nd to a standing room only audience at St. Francis Auditorium.

The audience response to the first half of the concert was overwhelming, and following intermission, it was announced that the orchestra would continue and be known as The Santa Fe Chamber Symphony. The announcement was met with thunderous applause–a fitting inspiration for the concluding work of the afternoon, the Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2.

Today, as a result of the continuing dedication of instrumentalists and choristers, the unflagging efforts of dozens of Board members past and present, and loyal donors, audiences and volunteers, The Santa Fe Symphony Orchestra and Chorus is a professional, full-time organization.