Spend an Enchanting Evening with Napa Valley Symphony

So many things about Napa are magical including the scenery, the history, the climate and the wine, of course. If you’re looking for something a little different to do the next time you visit Napa, plan to spend an enchanting evening at the Napa Valley Symphony.

Music director Michael Guttman leads the symphony from the podium and in philosophy. He’s been innovative with musical choices, values, education and encourages community programs. In fact, the Napa Valley Symphony is just one aspect of the Napa Valley Performing Arts Center’s scope, but it’s certainly a central one. In addition to its own performances, the symphony provides much of the music for most of the other in-house and presented performances at the Lincoln Theater.

Download our free Vacation Guide for a complete list of things to do during your stay at Churchill Manor, including spending an evening at the Napa Valley Symphony.

Artist in Residence and Community Programs

The Napa Valley Performing Arts Center at Lincoln Theater offers artist in residence programs in music, writing, theater, and dance. Partnerships with leading higher education institutions result in collaborations in the state-of-the-art facilities and world-class performances.

Partners include the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, UC Davis, St. Mary’s College and Dominican College. You can rest assured that the talent and enthusiasm for bringing arts to the community bring incredible performances and workshops of all kinds at the Lincoln Theater. In addition to musical performances, several authors have performed including Michael Pollan, Garrison Keillor, Darren Shan, Lisi Harrison, Veronica Rossi, Royce Buckingham and Darick Robertson.

Lincoln Theater Programs

You can take in a variety of performances at the Lincoln Theater. Here is a sample of just a couple of programs locals and guests alike can enjoy at the theater.

Annual Napa Valley Cowboy Music and Poetry Gathering

Get a real feel for Western art history at this evening of storytelling and song. Performers include folks from Elko, Nevada’s National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. Through poetry, music and stories, these cowboys express the beauty and challenges of a life deeply connected to the earth and its bounty.

One of the most exciting performers of the night is Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, considered one of the last true links to the great folk traditions of this country, with over 40 albums under his belt. Ramblin’ Jack’s life of travels, performances and recordings is a testament to the America of lore, a giant land of struggle, hard luck and sometimes even of good fortune.

Annual Napa Valley Film Festival

The Lincoln Theater hosts a portion of the Napa Valley Film Festival each year. During this event, movie lovers can experience more than 120 new films as well as listen to panel discussions and interact with filmmakers. Wine tastings and culinary treats are always part of this popular annual event.

Symphony Programs

In addition to the varied programs presented by the Napa Valley Symphony, several annual performances should not be missed.

Holidays in Vienna

Held each December, Symphony Napa Valley lights up with a special holiday program that will transport you to the glorious sounds of Vienna and Old Europe. Selections include seasonal favorites by Strauss, Tchaikovsky, Handel and others.  The program will include music from the Nutcracker, Messiah, Blue Danube, as well as traditional carols to fill you with holiday cheer. So don your festive attire and join Maestro Guttman, Symphony Napa Valley and choir in a sing-along of the Hallelujah Chorus!

Symphony Gala and Concert

This annual gala and concert is a spring celebration of a number of iconic composers. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in a night of music as well as the incomparable Gala Dinner following the show.

Start Planning Your Trip

Stay with us at Churchill Manor, and you’ll only enhance your enchanting experience of Napa Valley. Our free area Vacation Guide highlights Napa’s best places to go, things to do, and places to dine. A wonderful getaway is just a click away!