Pocatello has an expanding classical music community! There are so many places you can go to listen or play classical music. Whether you are looking for a small local place just to play a little music or want to go and listen to classics and world premieres with the ISCS symphony you can find classical music here!
Idaho State Civic Symphony
The Idaho State Civic Symphony is a semi-professional orchestra that combines community members with Idaho State University students and faculty. They often perform a mix of classics and new symphony music. This unique mix of students and community create learning opportunities and great music. As a member of the symphony, I too have learned and enjoyed creating wonderful music with people who have become close friends. If you would like to learn more about the symphony or upcoming concerts check out their website! https://iscsymphony.org/
KIND Conservatory
The KIND conservatory is a non profit youth conservatory dedicated to providing quality music lessons and education to youth in the area. KIND stands for Knowledge, Innovation, Nurturing, and Dedication. Dr. Natalia Lauk (Director) created the KIND conservatory to push against the musical stereotype of brutal, cold, and dry music teachers and instead, she aims to teach with kindness and support. The KIND conservatory also has a small ensemble that meets once a week that is completely open to anyone who can read music to come and play for fun! To learn more about the KIND conservatory check out their website! https://www.kindconservatory.org/
ISU Department of Music
ISU’s music department has a lot of concerts that are completely free and open to the public. They have everything from solo recitals to their chamber music, to the concert band! They often have performances around the community as well including at Station Square, the hospital, or the old firehouse in historic downtown Pocatello. Lessons are also offered to the public through the preparatory programs where people from the community can go and learn from current ISU music students. Overall the ISU Department of Music is a great learning environment and is full of talented musicians that you can go and listen to! To learn more about upcoming events check out their website. https://www.isu.edu/music/concerts-and-events/
Portneuf Valley String Orchestra
The Portneuf Valley String Orchestra is an upcoming professional string orchestra in Pocatello. It was recently founded and plans to have its first season starting this fall! (Fall of 2025) This orchestra hopes to create opportunities for musicians to be paid in the area to perform. They also hope to inspire youth in the area to start learning string instruments to support string education systems. Keep a lookout for this group starting soon!
There are many more opportunities to listen to and play music in the Pocatello area! Music inspires and uplifts. Let's enjoy it!