About the WSO
Since its founding in 1929 by Mrs. Eleanor D. Caldwell, the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra has enriched the cultural life of 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 WSO highlights living American artists of all backgrounds, creates dynamic and relevant concert formats and promotes the creativity of WSO musicians.
The orchestra performs a seven concert subscription series programmed with classical, Broadway, film and other popular genres of music at the Capitol Theatre in downtown Wheeling celebrating the versatility of symphonic music and the spirit of collaboration with guest artists. Each year, the WSO’s holiday-spectacular “Symphony on Ice” is held at WesBanco Arena and 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.
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 95 years, the WSO is proud to make Wheeling the smallest city in the United States to boast a symphony of its size and caliber!