Mission Statement

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

Background

Originally named the UNCW-Community Orchestra, the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1971 by local violinists Gaile Zack and Virginia Kusler. New to Wilmington, Gaile and Virginia labored for months to establish the interest and support from the then Chair of University of North Carolina-Wilmington's Music Department, Dr. Richard R. Deas, and music professor, William Adcock. Because of their dedication and hard work, eventually thirty-three volunteer musicians became the UNCW-Community Orchestra under the direction of Professor Adcock. Their first rehearsal was in November 1971. The orchestra performed its first concert on February 20, 1972 at UNCW's Kenan Auditorium.

Over the years, the orchestra grew in size and talent, and incorporated in 1986 as the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Steven Errante has held the position for 38 seasons, and the orchestra has flourished under his guidance.

In addition to its regular concerts, the orchestra founded the Music for Youth education and community outreach programs, including the Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestras and the annual Richard R. Deas Young Artist Concerto Competition. The program has impacted the lives of thousands of young musicians in the Cape Fear Region, and it continues to inspire the next generation of music lovers.