Piedmont Symphony Orchestra

MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra is to provide a shared experience through the power of music - uniting musicians, audiences, and students through innovative programming and musical excellence.  For over 25 years the PSO has been enriching, inspiring, and transforming lives through performances and educational outreach programs within the local community and beyond.

More About Us

Proudly based at the Michael A. Hughes Center for the Arts at the Highland School under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Glenn Quader, the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra is the premier orchestral ensemble of the greater Piedmont region. Founded in 1996 by Conductor Emeritus Michael A. Hughes, the PSO performs five regular season concerts and additional special appearances with varied and innovative programming. Glenn Quader was appointed Music Director and Conductor in 2005, and since his appointment the PSO has increased its paid core membership, strengthened its volunteer membership, and engaged in numerous collaborations with other local arts organizations. The members of the orchestra include musicians from Fauquier County and the neighboring communities, as well as many local teachers. 

Educational outreach is a key component of the mission of PSO. Under the leadership of Maestro Quader the PSO pioneered the Music Mentors Program, placing PSO principals in band and orchestra classes for sessions with students and teachers, all at no cost to schools. The PSO also holds an annual Young Artists Competition, featuring talented student musicians from the local area. Finalists perform with the orchestra and compete for scholarship prizes. Since the start of this program, the PSO has awarded over $50,000 in scholarship funds to aspiring artists.

The PSO proudly features world-renowned soloists and engages in collaborations with other local arts organizations. In 2017, the PSO partnered with The Reston Chorale to perform Beethoven's Ninth Symphony at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas. The performance also included the American University Chorus and soloists from the Maryland Lyric Opera.  Over 200 musicians on stage performed the soaring epic Ninth Symphony to a sold-out audience. 

Your donation directly supports the PSO's educational outreach programs and performances - help us continue to bring spectacular concerts to the community and enrichment to local students. Together we are PSO Strong!