Mission Statement

Mission Statement of the Western Piedmont Symphony

To enrich and engage the communities of Western North Carolina through high-quality symphonic music with creative, relevant performances, and educational opportunities for all ages.

 
For 58 years, Western Piedmont Symphony (WPS) has accomplished our mission by providing exceptional orchestral music experiences featuring a diverse array of acclaimed guest artists accompanied by our professional, highly-trained orchestra members.
 
From the very beginning, Western Piedmont Symphony has provided music and music education to the very young and the young at heart.  Children throughout the years remember their first taste of the classics at an in-school concert sponsored by WPS.
 
Read more about the history of the Western Piedmont Symphony.
 
 

Anti-Racist Statement

The Western Piedmont Symphony recognizes that our fellow citizens of the African American community have long endured unimaginable tragedies and discrimination due to systemic racism and oppression in our country. Our message is clear; we stand with you. As leaders in the arts, we are called to promote uplifting experiences that celebrate a shared humanity through music. We want to state unequivocally that hate and racism have no place in our organization or community, and we are actively working to address this most important issue.


In order to become more anti-racist, the Western Piedmont Symphony will redouble our efforts to make sure that everyone feels welcome in our arts community. We will evaluate our culture to amplify music and voices from African American artists who have oftentimes been underrepresented. We will work with members of our community to increase diversity among our Board of Directors and musicians.


Music Director Matthew Troy states, "I feel that great symphonic music belongs to everyone and has a unique ability to touch us all. We want to make sure that all of our concerts, events, and online content are representative of our community, but also of the many different cultures that have contributed to the tradition of orchestral and popular music in our country. Where we may have failed in the past, we are actively taking steps to do better."


We sincerely hope that our community will take time to reflect, but also to move forward to create meaningful and significant change. While we welcome a robust difference of opinions and perspectives we will be unified by our efforts of inclusivity and great music for ALL.


The Western Piedmont Symphony is committed to the lofty goal of bringing our community together through music and we welcome you on our journey to brighter days ahead.


Submitted by: Matthew Troy, Music Director; Ingrid Keller, Executive Director; and WPS Board of Directors, Gary McDougal - President