The Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra was founded as The Williamsburg Symphonia in 1984 by Carl Andersen, Elnore Andersen, Marian Harding, the late Mary Selby and the late Rebecca “Ruby” Siegel. Their mission was to bring free concerts to children who might otherwise be denied the inspiration and joys of classical music.

And so it was that the Symphony, then a group of dedicated volunteer musicians, brilliantly brought to life Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf at the Williamsburg Regional Library on May 6, 1984.

A vibrant and vital contributor to the performing arts of Williamsburg was born that day. Their initial performances were so well received that the founders planned a schedule of concerts for the general public.

Under Music Director Janna Hymes, The Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra continues to introduce young audiences to classical music in a way they can enjoy and understand. Today, the orchestra also presents subscription classical concerts with world-renowned guest artists, annual Holiday Pops during Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination, and a broad range of pops concerts and special events that attract a wide following and achieve critical acclaim. For information about our current season offerings, visit Concerts.