– GROW WITH MUSIC
The Wheeling Symphony Youth Orchestra offers talented young musicians from the tri-state area a tuition-free, formal venue in which to train and perform together under the auspices of the Wheeling Symphony. Students from middle school through college are provided with a professional musical environment and tutelage by Music Director Ben Podolski.

Members of the WSYO have the opportunity to be coached by members of the Wheeling Symphony and to meet with Wheeling Symphony guest artists in Master Classes. They also receive free admission to attend WSO Masterworks performances.

The WSYO performs two public concerts annually, as well as for community and civic functions. The WSYO is tuition-free due to the generous support of The Hazel Ruby McQuain Charitable Trust and corporate and individual donors. For information about the WSYO and audition procedures, contact Karen Haught, orchestra manager, by calling 304.232.6191 or 1.800.395.9241.

Benjamin Podolski has been a strings instructor for Ohio County Schools for eighteen years. He is a graduate of the former Buckeye North High School in Brilliant, OH, and was a member of the Wheeling Youth Symphony.

Mr. Podolski is a cum laude graduate of Youngstown State University where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education, and a Master in Music Performance degree. While a student at YSU, he was employed at Hiram College as a part-time instructor in the music department. He also served as assistant concertmaster with the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra and the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra, and is a member of the Caldwell String Quartet. Mr. Podolski served as Music Director and Co-Conductor of the Wheeling Symphony Youth Orchestra in 2003-04.

Mr. Podolski was chosen as the winner of the National Federation of High Schools Music Association Music Educator Award at the state level in 2003, and was the regional winner of this award in 2004. He also has been chosen as Teacher of the Year for Ohio County Schools in 1996-97, and was West Virginia Chapter of ASTA Outstanding String Teacher of the Year in 2000.

Mr. Podolski is a member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Wheeling, WV. He is most proud of being a volunteer at the Belmont County Animal Shelter and serving as vice president for the Belmont County Animal Rescue League. He is currently a three-dog dad.