Third life for symphony

The financially troubled San Jose Symphony, which ceased operations in 2001, was reincarnated last year as the Symphony San Jose Silicon Valley, under the auspices of the Ballet San Jose Silicon Valley. Now, symphony officials say the orchestra will have a third life: as a new, stand-alone orchestra called Symphony Silicon Valley.

Although the 75-member group will continue to accompany the ballet’s performances, the symphony is severing its ties to the ballet to facilitate its fund-raising.

“When times are tough, if I’m somebody who wants to donate to the symphony, I don’t necessarily want my money commingled with the ballet, and vice versa,” symphony President Andrew Bales said.

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Diane Haithman