About WSO
Since its founding in 1929 by Mrs. Eleanor D. Caldwell, the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra has enriched the cultural life of Wheeling and the Ohio Valley with outstanding orchestra performances, world-class guest artists, exceptional musicians and excellent educational programs.
Guided by the artistic vision of Music Director John Devlin, the orchestra performs a seven concert subscription series at the Capitol Theatre in downtown Wheeling. In addition, a SoundBites Series, coupling chamber orchestra music with gourmet dining, is offered at enticing venues including Oglebay Resort and the historic Scottish Rite Cathedral. The WSO’s holiday spectacular Symphony on Ice draws community participation from area skate clubs, middle and high school choirs, and business and local partners.
The WSO’s annual outdoor concerts are the centerpieces for community-wide celebrations on the Fourth of July at Wheeling’s Heritage Port and on Labor Day Weekend at the Anne Kuchinka Amphitheater in Oglebay Park. These concerts and their run-out performances in Clarksburg, Weirton and Canaan Valley, WV draw thousands of West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania residents each year. Throughout the calendar year, WSO on the Go ensemble performances bring music to neighborhoods in Wheeling and the surrounding communities in West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
The WSO’s Young People’s Concerts reach thousands of elementary students throughout the tri-state area each year. These concerts, coupled with the Arts in Education chamber music program and the Wheeling Symphony Youth Orchestra, demonstrate the Wheeling Symphony’s commitment to education for all students.
After more than 90 years, the WSO is proud to make Wheeling the smallest city in the United States to boast a symphony of its size and caliber!