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Dr. Tara Planeta ~ Executive Director/Interim Conductor
Dr. Planeta holds a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership as well as Master's and Bachelor's Degrees in Violin Performance. She has enjoyed over 27 years as a professional in performance and education and is happy to bring her experience to the Piedmont Youth Symphony. Dr. Planeta is also the Founder and 1st Violinist of the Atoka String Quartet based in Loudoun/Fauquier Counties, as well as a private instructor of violin/viola at The Catoctin School of Music. She will be conducting PYSO while Ms. O is out on maternity leave.
Laura O'Konski ~ Conductor
"Ms. O" earned her Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from George Mason University and studied at the graduate level at Shenandoah Conservatory. She is the new Director of Orchestra at Colonial Forge High School in Stafford, and also teaches private lessons for viola, cello, and violin. A recent Grammy nominee for being an excellent music educator, she has also been asked to guest conduct at the Knoxville, Tennessee Area Junior Orchestra Clinic. Ms. O has served as a conductor for the youth orchestra since 2015, and is also a member of the professional ensemble Atoka Strings. She currently resides in Fredericksburg with her husband, son, dogs, and cats.
Board Members
Laura O'Konski ~ President
Dr. Tara Planeta ~ Vice President
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