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Judith Hoffman ~ Interim Conductor
Ms. Hoffman graduated from Eastern Mennonite University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. She is a first-year teacher at Liberty High School as the Director of Orchestra and Choir. In her spare time, she can be found enjoying a bowl of pho, playing the violin, or spending time with family and friends. Ms. Hoffman is excited to add the role of conductor of the Piedmont Youth Symphony and looking forward to the year ahead.
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, dogs, cats, and baby on-the-way.
Dr. Tara Planeta ~ Executive Director
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 25 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.
Board Members
Laura O'Konski ~ President
Dr. Tara Planeta ~ Vice President
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