The North State Symphony was created in 2001 from the merger of the Chico and Redding Symphonies, and functions as a program within the College of Humanities and Fine Arts at California State University, Chico. Kyle Wiley Pickett was the conductor of the North State Symphony from its inception in 2001 until 2014. After a two year search process, Scott Seaton was appointed Music Director in 2015. The musicians of the orchestra include professionals from a wide geographic area as well as students and faculty members of California State University, Chico. The university also provides extensive administrative and production support to the Symphony. Financial support also comes from the community leaders who serve on the Board of Directors, Board of Regents, and members of the music-loving communities of the region. The origins of the North State Symphony can be traced back to 1905, when the first orchestra formed at what was then the Chico State Normal School. Thus 2005 was celebrated as the 100th anniversary of symphonic music in the North State area.