September 13, 2023
In his career with California Symphony, it’s not common for Principal Percussionist Allen Biggs to play drum kit during concerts—let alone for two different pieces on the same program! In season opener COPLAND—AMERICAN TRADITIONS, Wynton Marsalis’ Violin Concerto in D and Juan Pablo Contreras’ MeChicano both feature drum kits of various sizes and playing styles, reflecting
March 30, 2022
From a foreign national anthem, to a groundbreaking world premiere that was immediately heralded by critics as “a masterpiece,” and unusual intermission on Sunday afternoon, this weekend’s concerts were almost as drama-filled as the Oscars. #WeStandWithUkraine Both concerts this weekend opened with a rendition of the Ukrainian national anthem, in solidarity with the people of
May 6, 2020
You might have seen California Symphony percussionist Allen Biggs at the back of the orchestra. During the shelter-in-place, you can find him serenading his neighborhood with his marimba from his driveway. What was an early influence in your musical life? I was born in San Francisco. Then when I was three years old, my
October 9, 2018
California Symphony percussionist Allen Biggs has been performing with the California Symphony since the first ever concert more than three decades ago. He is a one of a quartet of percussionists who will perform under the dome of the planetarium at Chabot Space & Science Center for Symphony Surround, June 8, 2019. We caught up