A Humble Beginning: The Vision of Eleanor D. Caldwell
In a small living room nearly a century ago, Eleanor D. Caldwell struck the first note of a dream that would resonate across generations. Today, that dream has been realized as the Wheeling Symphony, now in its 95th season, continues to bring the magic of music to life in the Ohio Valley.
Eleanor created a space for anyone who wanted to learn more about classical music, offering hope and opportunities for those passionate about pursuing a music career. A highly talented and educated musician, she studied extensively across the United States and Europe. Despite her far-reaching experiences, she returned to Wheeling and made access to classical music her primary goal.
She championed music education initiatives throughout the state, often providing funding to help build music facilities for local schools and colleges. Her deep love for music and her community laid the foundation for the Wheeling Symphony’s enduring legacy, creating an experience that continues to enrich lives right here at home.
Building a Musical Community
Education has always been at the heart of the Wheeling Symphony’s mission, a tradition rooted in Eleanor D. Caldwell’s passion for fostering learning and growth. In addition to their celebrated professional performances, the Symphony offers valuable opportunities for student musicians, helping to nurture the next generation of talent.
For nearly a century, the Symphony has also built a bridge between generations, blending the timeless works of Mozart and Beethoven with fresh interpretations of contemporary music, creating a space for collaboration between local musicians and nationally recognized artists.
Music Education: A Core Value
Eleanor D. Caldwell’s passion for education shaped the Symphony’s commitment to nurturing young musicians in two fundamental ways:
- Wheeling Symphony Youth Orchestra (WYSO): This program offers junior high to college-level students the chance to audition, perform, and learn in a symphony setting.
- Arts in Education Programs: By bringing music education directly into Ohio County schools, the Symphony continues to inspire future generations of musicians.
Beyond the Symphony Hall: Community Outreach
Students and education are not the only aspects of the Symphony’s community outreach. The Wheeling Symphony brings music to unexpected venues, including businesses, churches, and summer festivals through initiatives like:
- WSO on the Go: The WSO on the Go series brings live small ensemble music to diverse venues across the Ohio Valley, such as museums, parks, churches, and breweries.
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Community Concert Series: The Wheeling Symphony Orchestra brings live music to diverse audiences at iconic local venues like WesBanco Arena, Oglebay, and Wheeling Heritage Port. A season highlight is Symphony on Ice, a one-of-a-kind event that combines local ice skaters, school choirs, and the symphony for an unforgettable night at WesBanco Arena.
- WSO Community Choir: With support from a partnership grant from Wheeling Heritage, a new community choir held auditions in August 2024 and is set to debut in May 2025 as part of the Masterworks program.
These performances create shared experiences that strengthen the community and make music accessible to all.
The Wheeling Symphony has become a cornerstone of our community here in Wheeling, offering experiences otherwise only found in the big cities. Created out of nothing more than a pure love of music, the symphony keeps that tenant strong while also treading into new waters.
Ninety-five years is a long time, and the Wheeling Symphony has seen its share of evolution. Over the decades, nine music directors have led the Symphony, each guided by the enduring mantra, “For the Love of Music.” Today, under the leadership of nationally acclaimed Music Director John Devlin, the Symphony is entering an exciting new era.
Devlin brings a fresh perspective, focusing not only on classics like Mozart and Beethoven but also exploring a variety of musical genres. His innovative approach has led to unique events that resonate with a diverse audience.
One of the Symphony’s greatest successes under his leadership is the Harry Potter in Concert series. These performances feature live renditions of the original movie scores played alongside screenings of the films, creating an immersive experience that bridges traditional orchestral music with pop culture. By blending timeless artistry with modern appeal, Devlin and the Wheeling Symphony are redefining what it means to experience live music in the Ohio Valley.
Looking Ahead: The Wheeling Symphony’s Lasting Impact
The Wheeling Symphony stands as a cornerstone of our culture, and as they celebrate the conclusion of their 95th season, their profound impact on the community shines brighter than ever.
Don’t miss the final events of this milestone season! Visit the Wheeling Symphony website to learn more about their upcoming performances and join in the celebration.
