A classical music company which has been an institution in Santa Barbara County for nearly four decades is folding its operations.
The Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra has been entertaining audiences since 1978. But, financial issues caught up with non-profit organization.
Like most performing arts groups, tickets sales only make up part of the budget, and grants are necessary to help pay the bills.
In April, the Orchestra’s Board of Directors announced it would suspend operations for the 2017-2018 season, while it reviewed and tried to rally community financial support. Now, the board has announced it will close down permanently.
Over the years, the orchestra attracted some of the world’s top artists to the area for performances. It also operated a number of community outreach programs.
