On behalf of the board of directors, I would like to welcome you to the 46th Season of the Western Piedmont Symphony!  This promises to be another year of timeless music performed by one of the best symphonies in the region.  In addition to the five masterworks performances, the concert season will also include five performances in the Friends of the Quartet Chamber Classic Series and three performances by the Youth Symphony.

For this year's Masterwork Series John Gordon Ross has selected works from the giants of music, accented by less familiar pieces and works by contemporary composers. The programs are sure to excite both the seasoned listener and the newcomer to classical music alike. Each concert will feature a guest performer, a virtuoso to dazzle the ear and punctuate the brilliance of our symphony. 

Each Masterwork Concert will start with a pre-concert dinner.  In addition to excellent food and company, these dinners offer a special opportunity to learn from our Conductor and guest artists about the music to be enjoyed that evening, heightening the appreciation of the music.  These dinners and lectures are treats not commonly offered by larger philharmonics. 

The Chamber Classics Series now in its eleventh year, provides a solid foundation for aspiring musicians who wish to create a career in classical music.  It also allows these musicians a chance to become a part of our community and bring their music into our schools. The Kontras Quartet will delight us with their performances. following in La Catrina's footsteps as the musical residency here in Hickory.

The WPS Youth Symphony is a group of more than 90 local student musicians also under the direction of Maestro John Gordon Ross.  These young performers are the future of classical music in our culture.  Help us foster these promising artists by attending their performances.

Be sure to mark your calenders for the Festival of Trees and the eagerly awaited return of THE SNOW VILLAGE to be held this year in November 2010. Surely not to be missed!

We are so fortunate to have these musical treasures to enrich our lives here in the Unifour and I am grateful that our community has sustained them in these troubling economic times.  I would like to extend a special thank you to the Concert and First Chair Sponsors, Contributors, the local businesses who advertise in our Concert Program Book, Board and Guild members, Volunteers, Season Ticket Holders, and especially the Musicians who make this wonderful gift of music possible. 

I hope to see you at future concerts.  On behalf of everyone who works for or values the Western Piedmont Symphony, thank you for your continued support.  Enjoy!