Founded in 1982 by Jody Ellis, Anne-Lise Cohen, and a committed group of volunteer musicians and board members, the SFCO was established to bring free concerts and music education to the Santa Fe community. The orchestra’s first conductor, Robert Wingert, helped lay the foundation for this vision, launching a tradition of high-quality, accessible performances.
From 1999 to 2023, Oliver Prezant served as music director and conductor, expanding SFCO’s community engagement, artistic reach, and educational programming. Under his leadership, the orchestra grew in both size and scope, forging collaborations with local arts organizations and schools.
Since 2023, SFCO has welcomed several talented New Mexico-based conductors, including William Waag, Elisa Martinez, Daniel Whisler, and Daniel Villanueva, ensuring the continuation of its rich musical tradition.
Programs & Community Impact
SFCO’s current programs include:
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Free orchestral concerts featuring beloved classics, rarely performed gems, and world premieres by New Mexico composers.
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Performances by professional New Mexico soloists, allowing them to showcase their most cherished repertoire.
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Side-by-side mentorship programs pairing music students with SFCO musicians in Santa Fe public schools.
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Support for composers statewide through our New Works by New Mexico Composers series and our Composition Competition, which awards a cash prize and a world premiere performance.
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Creative collaborations with arts organizations and local artists, including:
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Santa Fe Youth Symphony & Youth Philharmonic
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National Dance Institute (NDI)
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New Mexico School for the Arts
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Storyteller Joe Hayes
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Photographer Steven W. Martin
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New Mexico Museum of Art
Expanding Our Reach
SFCO now engages volunteer musicians and choristers from across the state, including Santa Fe, Moriarty, Jemez Springs, Montezuma, Taos, Cochiti Lake, Dixon, Los Alamos, Albuquerque, and Las Vegas, NM.
Our working Board, part-time staff, and dedicated volunteers provide the essential support needed for concert production and community outreach. The orchestra continues to refine its artistic and administrative policies, including: improved communication with members, streamlined rehearsal schedules, and thoughtful selection of repertoire
Through the dedication of our musicians, volunteers, and board members, SFCO remains a cornerstone of New Mexico’s music community, supporting soloists, composers, students, and audiences who seek to deepen their appreciation for orchestral music.
Co- Founder Jody Ellis
Co-Founder Anne-Lise Cohen
