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San Diego Symphony: A Century of Music

Experience world-class music at the historic Jacobs Music Center, home of the San Diego Symphony, a cultural gem in downtown San Diego.

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The San Diego Symphony, established in 1910, is a leading orchestra performing at Jacobs Music Center in downtown San Diego. With a rich history and a commitment to musical excellence, the Symphony offers a diverse range of concerts and community programs.

A brief summary to San Diego Symphony

Local tips

  • Check the San Diego Symphony's website for the most up-to-date concert schedule and ticket information.
  • Consider attending a Summer Pops concert at The Rady Shell for a unique outdoor musical experience.
  • Arrive early to find parking, as it can be limited in the downtown area.
  • Take advantage of the Symphony's restaurant partners for discounts on the day of your concert.
  • Explore downtown San Diego before or after the concert to make the most of your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Jacobs Music Center is accessible via the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). Take the Blue or Orange Line trolley to the Fifth Avenue stop, which is a few blocks from the Music Center. A one-way fare is $2.50. Consider purchasing a PRONTO card for easy fare payment and unlimited transfers within two hours.

  • Walking

    From many downtown hotels and attractions, the Jacobs Music Center is easily accessible by foot. It's located at the corner of 7th Avenue and B Street. Walking from the Convention Center area takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Enjoy the vibrant cityscape as you make your way to the concert hall.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Diego. A short taxi ride within downtown San Diego typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on the distance and traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or check the app before you begin your trip.

  • Driving

    If driving, exit I-5 at 10th Avenue or Pershing/B Street and follow the signs to downtown. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks of the Jacobs Music Center. Expect to pay around $8-$20 for 2 hours of parking. Valet parking is available for Friday and Saturday evening concerts on B Street in front of Symphony Towers. Free metered street parking is available after 6 pm Monday-Saturday and all day Sunday.

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Discover more about San Diego Symphony

The San Diego Symphony, the oldest orchestra in California, has been a cornerstone of the region's cultural landscape for over a century. Founded in 1910, the orchestra has grown into one of the leading symphonies in the United States, offering a wide array of concert experiences and community engagement programs. Jacobs Music Center, the Symphony's primary indoor venue, is a beautifully restored concert hall that originally opened in 1929 as the Fox Theatre, a lavish movie palace. The Symphony acquired the hall in 1984, and it has since become renowned as one of the finest classical music venues on the West Coast. In addition to Jacobs Music Center, the Symphony performs at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, an outdoor venue on San Diego Bay. The San Diego Symphony presents a diverse repertoire, including classical masterworks, pops concerts, film scores, and family-friendly performances. The orchestra also collaborates with internationally acclaimed guest artists and participates in cultural activities in Baja California, Mexico. Led by Music Director Rafael Payare, the Symphony comprises 82 full-time musicians who are dedicated to enriching the San Diego community through passionate music-making. Throughout its history, the San Diego Symphony has faced periods of financial instability, but it has consistently persevered, thanks to the support of the community and generous donors. Today, the Symphony continues to thrive, offering transformative learning experiences and making music an integral part of the cultural fabric of the San Diego region.

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