- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: March 24, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
RECOGNIZING AND CONGRATULATING THE STOCKTON SYMPHONY ON THEIR
CENTENNIAL YEAR
HON. JOSH HARDER
of california
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
Mr. HARDER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Stockton Symphony during its 2026-2027 Centennial concert season. For a century, the Stockton Symphony has enriched the cultural life of Stockton and the Central Valley, bringing artistic excellence, educational opportunity, and community connection to generations of families.
during “Music Week” for the Stockton Musical Club. The orchestra was formed by twenty local musicians under the leadership of Manlio Silva— an Italian immigrant, pharmacist by day and conductor by night—whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for one of California's oldest continuously operating professional orchestras. Just months later, in October 1926, the Symphony opened its first full season at the California Theater on Main Street, making high-quality musical performance accessible to the community. Silva continued to lead the orchestra until 1958, guiding it through decades of growth.
Berens, and Ralph Matesky sustained the Symphony's legacy before Kyung- Soo Won began a transformative 27-year tenure in 1967. Under his leadership, the orchestra evolved from a community ensemble into a fully professional organization of “metropolitan” status as recognized by the League of American Orchestras.
period of continued artistic achievement and national recognition. Through acclaimed world premieres, composer residencies, and vibrant educational programs such as Harmony Stockton, Steppin' Out, and Magic of Music, the Symphony has strengthened its role as both a cultural anchor and an educational leader. Collaborations with local schools, colleges, arts organizations, and community groups continue to ensure that music remains accessible and inclusive for all.
concerts, engages renowned guest artists and rising virtuosos, and remains steadfast in its mission to inspire joy and build community through the magic of music.
Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Stockton Symphony on its Centennial Anniversary and in expressing our deep gratitude for 100 years of extraordinary service to the Central Valley. May the