Waynesboro Symphony Orchestra

The WSO was founded in 1996 as the Waynesboro Community Orchestra. In its debut concert, 23 musicians performed works by Lully, Bach and Haydn. Over the past two decades the ensemble has grown significantly, having more than doubled its core size and often tripling the original personnel for some repertoire, which now includes works by Beethoven, Berlioz, Brahms, Copland, Dvorak, Hanson, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Schubert, Tchaikovsky and Wagner. The ensemble has consistently programmed more challenging literature with each new season, growing a repertoire that includes works from all centuries of the classical tradition. The WSO has welcomed members from many communities outside Waynesboro, including Staunton, Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, and Richmond, while also performing concerts in Staunton in partnership with Mary Baldwin University, as well as fundraising events in Charlottesville. In addition, the orchestra regularly collaborates with local and touring soloists while remaining deeply committed to the WSO String School and other educational pursuits. During the final concert of the 2005-2006 season, which celebrated the orchestra’s 10th anniversary, the organization officially adopted its current name, the Waynesboro Symphony Orchestra. Founding conductor Eric Stassen was succeeded in 2006 by Jean Montès who served for a single season. In May 2007, Peter Wilson was appointed the WSO’s 3rd Music Director. Dr. Wilson now leads the orchestra in its 22nd Season.