Our Story
The North State Symphony was created in 2001 from the merger of the Chico and Redding Symphonies, and operates as a program within the College of Humanities and Fine Arts at California State University, Chico. Scott Seaton was appointed Music Director and Conductor beginning with the 2015-16 season. Kyle Wiley Pickett was the conductor of the orchestra from its inception in 2001 until 2014.
The musicians of the orchestra include professionals from throughout Northern California and beyond, and local students.
Financial support comes from our patrons, from community leaders who serve on the NSS Advisory Board and Board of Regents, and from music lovers throughout our north state communities.
The origins of the North State Symphony can be traced back to 1905, when the first orchestra formed at what was then the Chico State Normal School. Thus 2005 was celebrated as the 100th anniversary of symphonic music in the North State area.
Mission Statement
The North State Symphony is a cultural symbol of Northern California seeking to engage, educate, excite, and unite North State communities through the language of music.
Giving Back
Symphony Impact
At North State Symphony, we believe that music has the power to inspire, educate, and connect people of all ages.
Our Conductor
Scott Seaton, Music Director
“…if fireworks could conduct, they’d be named Seaton. His movements ranged from as controlled and explosive as a prize fighter to as fluid and delicate as a ballet dancer.”
aNewsCafe.com
Get to Know Us!
Orchestra
Our musicians are vital to the cultural fabric of Northern California, enriching our communities with creativity, diversity, and a shared sense of identity through the power of music.
Meet the Musicians
Board & Regents
NORTH STATE SYMPHONY ADVISORY BOARD:
Nena L. Perry, M.D., Board Chair
Patty Mullett
Sam Hillaire
Nancy Overton
Ailsie McEnteggart
James Malin
Barbara Enochian
Scott Seaton, Music Director
Claire Pelley, Director
NORTH STATE SYMPHONY BOARD OF REGENTS:
Eugene L. Nichols, President
Margaret B. Brennan-Maxey
Doreeta Domke
Barbara O. Geshekter
Richard Jackson
Thomas Kaut
Dawn Kusumoto
Richard Macias
Missy McArthur
John Oakes
Dr. Ronald E. Reece
Gayle H. Tilles
Chris Wray
Staff
UNIVERSITY PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND NORTH STATE SYMPHONY STAFF:
Stephanie Yunker, Director of University Public Engagement
Claire Pelley, Director of Chico Performances and North State Symphony
April Whitley, Director of Business and Patron Service Operations
Scott Seaton, Symphony Music Director
Evonnia Dominguez, Project Coordinator
Abbey Hill, Production Manager
Elizabeth Shy, Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Karen Avis, Arts Engagement and Concessions Coordinator
Chris Zinna, Box Office Coordinator
Cosima Nigro-Dorton, Box Office Sales Lead
Luis Rodriguez, Venue and Patron Services Specialist
David Rose, Concessions and Patron Services Coordinator
Justin Vodden, Technical Coordinator
Robert Wysling, Assistant Technical Coordinator
Treble Cierpke, Symphony Personnel Coordinator
Andrew Zollinger, Symphony Equipment Coordinator and Stage Manager
Siana Sonoquie, Symphony Education, Outreach and Development Coordinator
Courtney Cochran, Symphony Music Librarian
Join the Symphony
Auditions
Thank you for your interest in joining the North State Symphony. Information regarding the 2025 – 2026 Symphony musician auditions will be available this July. Please check back in with us this summer.
Careers
Career Opportunities
Currently, we do not have open positions. Please continue to check back for a chance to join our team.
