COEUR d’ALENE — The Coeur d’Alene Symphony Orchestra kicked off its concert season Monday with a free Labor Day concert in City Park.  

Hundreds of music lovers set up lawn chairs and picnic blankets under the trees to enjoy a variety of classical and opera pieces performed by the Symphony. Cd'A Symphony Orchestra board member Brenda Garcia described the Labor Day concert as a “longtime tradition” that introduces the symphony to the community. 

“It’s a great way to finish summer and a great opportunity for people to sample classical music,” Garcia said.  

The symphony’s concert season will run from October to May with six indoor shows, including a Christmas concert Dec. 14. This season’s theme is “Celebrating Community," and concerts will be conducted by music director Danh Pham, who also conducted Monday’s concert. 

Members of the Music Conservatory of Coeur d’Alene were also in attendance. Musicians with the symphony orchestra often also perform with the conservatory, or vice versa. 

“These concerts bring me a lot of pride. I smile when I listen to these artists,” said Kent Kimball, the conservatory’s artistic director.  

The conservatory is also set to kick off its concert season with its third annual Oktoberfest fundraiser Saturday, Sept. 21, from noon to 3 p.m. on the conservatory lawn. It will feature live music and a selection of Bavarian foods.  

The conservatory will also perform the popular Handel’s “Messiah” ahead of the Christmas season for a third year. These concerts are scheduled for Nov. 23 at 7 p.m., and Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. at the Schuler Performing Arts Center on the North Idaho College Campus.

    Hundreds of people gathered in Coeur d'Alene City Park to watch the CDA Symphony Orchestra put on its free Labor Day concert.