Now an established East Bay institution, the orchestra is comprised of dedicated adult amateur musicians who gather to share in the joy and magic of music- making, offering free concerts to the community. Committed also to encouraging new generations of musicians, the Oakland Civic Orchestra provides performance opportunities for young artists and budding composers from around the bay area. The orchestra's concert home is Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, overlooking beautiful Lake Merritt in downtown Oakland. The Oakland Civic Orchestra is sponsored by the City of Oakland Office of Parks and Recreation, and is supported by donations, membership dues and a grant from the Dr. Joel and Maria Fort Fund for Ethics, Wisdom and Solving Social and Health Problems.