ABOUT US

WSO’S COMMUNITY IMPACT

Founded in 1971, the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra (WSO) performs a Classics Series and a Young People’s Concert in Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College, averaging 1,000 audience members for each of its concerts (6-7 concerts annually). WSO also performs for over 5,000 audience members at Live Oak Bank Pavilion for the City of Wilmington’s free community Fourth of July Celebration Event.

The WSO is comprised of about 75 experienced musicians from around the Wilmington metropolitan area. Musicians audition to become a WSO player and are paid $75 per service.

Dr. Peter Askim serves as Music Director of the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra beginning with the 2025–2026 season. Following his retirement in May 2025 after nearly four decades of artistic leadership, Dr. Steven Errante was named Conductor Emeritus in recognition of his distinguished tenure with the orchestra since 1986.

Text in a circle stating 1,500 students in New Hanover, Pender, Onslow, and Brunswick counties experience Artist in Residence and Making Noise with the Symphony outreach programs.
Text inside a yellow circle: "WSO provides over 500 complimentary student tickets each year - approximately $18,000 in annual ticket revenue." Blue numerals for "500."

WSO provides both performance opportunities and an array of unique educational programs for Wilmington and Cape Fear region residents through its Music For Youth education & community outreach programs.

The Music For Youth programs include:

  • Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestras (WSYO)

  • Young People’s Concert

  • WSYO Chamber Ensembles

  • Music Collective (need-based scholarships & music lessons)

  • Tickets For Students

  • Richard R. Deas Young Artist Competition

  • Artist-In-Residence

  • Making Noise with the Symphony

  • Fundamentals of Music Composition

The Music For Youth programs impact over 2,500 students in Southeastern North Carolina each year!

Text circle with purple border stating, "WSYO students represent 40 public, private & charter schools in the area!"
"133 students in Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestra and Junior Strings ensembles" text in circle

OUR MISSION

The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra provides symphonic music to the highest degree of excellence through performance opportunities for regional musicians and educational and outreach programs for our community’s youth.