Modesto, California

===Music and performing arts===
The [[Modesto Symphony Orchestra]], which finds its home at the Gallo Center, held their first performance when Modesto had a population of 17,000 in 1931 and continues to be a staple in the community.<ref>[http://www.modestosymphony.org/history.sj Modesto Symphony Official Web Site] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090405114442/http://www.modestosymphony.org/history.sj |date=April 5, 2009 }}</ref> Not to be outdone by the Symphony, MoBand (Modesto Band of Stanislaus County), established in 1919, is one of the oldest continuously performing bands in the U.S.<ref>[http://www.modestoband.org/history.aspx MoBand Official Web Site] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090624144856/http://www.modestoband.org/history.aspx |date=June 24, 2009 }}</ref> The group performs a free 6-week summer concerts-in-the-park series with its 130 volunteer musicians.

Modesto is also home to Townsend Opera, founded in 1983 by the late Modesto-born opera singer Buck Townsend, and Modesto Performing Arts, as well as the Gallo Center for the Arts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gallocenter.org |title=Gallo Center for the Arts}}</ref> Modesto is also home to the area's leading professional ballet company, Central West Ballet.

The Mexican culture and traditions are displayed by the Ballet Folklorico Group "Casa Cultural Tradiciones". Folklorico groups are often at Modesto events, sharing their culture with traditional dance and colorful attire.

The MAMA, Modesto Area Music Awards are held each October. Local radio stations and promoters nominate local bands and voting happens online. There is a black tie ceremony and trophies are given to winners in multiple categories. A lifetime achievement award is also presented. The MAMAs were created by Chris Murphy and Chris Ricci to support and encourage local musicians.