Orchestra History

The Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra, a civic symphony of the MetroWest area, began in 1985 under the direction of local musicians David J. Tierney and Harold W. McSwain, Jr. Comprised of almost 50 professional, semi-professional, and amateur musicians, the orchestra’s mission is to provide the Waltham community with the opportunity to perform in and attend excellent classical concerts. WPO musicians come from Waltham as well as from Boston and surrounding communities. The ensemble includes players of a wide range of ages and professions who rehearse weekly.

There are four to five concerts throughout the season, including one that features the winner of the annual Student Concerto Competition, which provides opportunities for young musicians to perform solo works with the WPO. Annual concerts have included summer Concerts on the Common and the November/December Holiday Pops.

Over the years since its founding, the WPO has had talented music directors who have led the orchestra to new musical heights. Our current Music Director Michael Korn, who has led the orchestra since 2009, recently won the 2016 American Prize in Orchestral Programming – Community Orchestra Division for his creative program selections for the WPO. Special programs have included Latin-American and Asian-themed concerts as well as opera galas, premieres of contemporary music, and concerts featuring noted soloists.

Arrangements can be made for the Orchestra or its Chamber Players to perform for business or social functions.

The WPO is a nonprofit organization governed by its Board of Directors in conjunction with WPO members. We welcome volunteers to assist with the operations of the orchestra. We also welcome inquiries about joining the Board of Directors. For more information, e-mail the board president at wpo.attendance@gmail.com, or speak with any WPO member about your interest.