The SMART Orchestra (San Marcos Artists’ Retention and Training Orchestra) is dedicated to the enhanced appreciation and understanding of orchestral music in San Marcos and its surrounding communities. Since our founding in 2009, the orchestra was built upon the idea that we need to retain the local talent we have and we need to train them to become better musicians.
We provide a fast-paced, structured, and organized opportunity for our musicians to perform and learn in a full symphony orchestra rehearsal setting. We also provide the following avenues for all of San Marcos:
-A free, community concert series featuring the SMART Orchestra (4-5 performances per season)
-Participation opportunities in our SMART Sessions Recital Series.
-Various educational and outreach opportunities in San Marcos and the surrounding communities. (Including directing and internship programs)
SMART is designed to be an outlet for individuals interested in the study and performance of music and we encourage participants to contribute their time, talent, and skill to better serve the orchestra’s mission. Whether you are a member of our audience, performing, or serving on the SMART Board, your enthusiasm and curiosity are welcome in an environment of acceptance and growth.
We are a PROUD recipient of the 2023 smART Advocacy Award and we were voted BEST CLASSICAL ARTIST in San Marcos at the First Annual San Marcos Music Awards in 2024!
We’re always looking for unique ideas for collaboration within the community. If you are hosting an event & would like the orchestra to perform, let us know. We, unfortunately, can’t play every event we’re asked to do, but we love playing local & supporting our local community events.