In the heart of San Antonio, newly rebranded, The Orchestra San Antonio (TOSA) shines as a vibrant cultural institution dedicated to enriching the community through music. As the resident orchestra at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, TOSA, previously known as Classical Music Institute, is not just about delivering stunning performances; it’s about creating a lasting impact through education, collaboration, and community engagement.

Recently, SVPSA’s Executive Director, Becky Dinnin met with the TOSA team to discuss their plans for the future and how their mission is unique as it embraces music education and professional performances.

First and foremost, TOSA leaders are expanding how San Antonio understands their work. The Orchestra San Antonio is more than an orchestra; it is becoming a cultural institution for every generation and music taste that enriches the lives of those it touches. With its commitment to education, collaboration, and community engagement, TOSA is poised to continue making a significant impact on San Antonio’s cultural landscape for years to come.

A Vision for the Future

TOSA envisions a future where music transforms lives and unites communities through music performing and education connecting all generations. Building on the legacy of the Classical Music Institute, TOSA aims to be a cultural cornerstone for San Antonio. Their mission is to bring exceptional performances to the stage, nurture the next generation of musicians through innovative education, and create meaningful connections through festivals and community engagement. With artistry and inclusivity at its core, TOSA is redefining the role of classical music for our city, explains Paul Montalvo, President and CEO.

Education is at the heart of TOSA’s mission, Montalvo says. The orchestra offers a variety of programs designed to ignite passion, cultivate creativity, and nurture talent in musicians of all ages. The 210 Festival Youth Program provides students aged 8–18 with opportunities to explore and refine their talents while cultivating essential musicianship skills. This program is free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all participants.

The TOSA Fellowship offers young instrumentalists an unparalleled opportunity to delve deeper into orchestral performance alongside a professional orchestra. This fellowship supports the growth of skilled talent within San Antonio, opening doors to future employment and educational opportunities.

Collaboration is also a key component of TOSA’s approach. The orchestra partners with local organizations such as OPERA San Antonio, Ballet San Antonio, and 100A Productions to create performances that are both artistically rich and accessible to broader audiences. These collaborations enhance the cultural vibrancy of San Antonio and make classical music more accessible to diverse audiences.

There are many opportunities to engage with the nonprofit coming up. TOSA’s calendar is filled with exciting performances that showcase its commitment to artistic excellence. Notable upcoming events include “Dancing Through Time” on November 8, 2025, at the H-E-B Performance Hall, and “Christmas Baroque Brilliance” on December 10 and 11, 2025, at various venues. These performances promise to be a celebration of music, featuring concerts, workshops, and more.

Beyond performances, TOSA is deeply committed to community engagement. Programs like Ascend aim to provide comprehensive classical music education experiences to students who seek regular access to music programs in their schools or communities. This initiative is free-of-charge and open to all students in Bexar County and surrounding areas.