When the Napa Valley Symphony shut down in 2012, it left a void in our community. Many musicians were left without a home, and residents had no opportunity to experience the joy of classical music performed by Napa-based artists. 

Bonded by their love of playing and sharing the transformative nature of classical music, in 2021, four former members of the Napa Symphony – Lora Levin, Claire Burke, Charlene Steen, and Lois Decius – took matters into their own hands and formed the Napa Valley Chamber Orchestra. They recruited fellow community members, ranging from those who were classically trained professional musicians to highly accomplished local amateurs. Today, the Orchestra is 26 musicians strong and continues to grow, proudly delivering free concerts.