About

History of the Orchestra

In the summer of 2004 Ulli Reiner, Concertmaster, had the vision to form a symphony orchestra that would fill a need for classical music performances in the community and for musicians interested in playing in a full orchestra. Soon a handful of musicians signed up, a conductor was chosen, and the first performance was presented on April 1, 2005. From these humble beginnings, the Poway Symphony Orchestra (PSO) has grown into a full-size symphonic orchestra. Its repertoire has expanded to include a wide variety of classical music masterpieces of the great composers. Appreciative audiences have increased over the years at the three annual concerts in the beautiful local venue that is affiliated with the Poway Center for the Performing Arts. The orchestra is organized through the Poway Unified School District, Adult School.

Since 2005, four conductors have led the orchestra: Randall Brinton, Branden Muresan, Warren Torns, and John LoPiccolo, the current Conductor and Music Director. Maestro LoPiccolo joined the PSO in 2014 and the orchestra performed the first concert under his direction in November 2014. With his leadership it has grown and evolved, consistently delivering high-quality performances that delight audiences.

The Poway Symphony Orchestra is the only organization in San Diego North County to offer live performances of classical masterpieces in a local venue. We take pride in being a shining star in the local arts and culture scene, enriching the quality of life in the region.

In June 2025, the Poway Symphony Orchestra Foundation underwent a significant leadership transition when Bo Matthys, who served as president of the PSO Foundation’s board of directors since its inception, stepped down from the position and James Reid, Ph.D. took on the role of president. 

Bo has been a driving force behind the Poway Symphony Orchestra (PSO) since its earliest days. He was instrumental in establishing the Foundation’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, in helping build a solid donor network, securing rehearsal space through the continued support of the Poway Unified School District, and establishing a stable concert presence at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts. He remains actively involved with the organization, serving on the Foundation Board as vice-president and president emeritus.

Having celebrated our 20th anniversary in 2024, we look forward to a future of creating beautiful music. To assure our future growth and success, the Poway Symphony Orchestra would like to reach out to businesses, foundations and individuals to consider financially supporting this unique cultural asset. In doing so, your name can be associated with the Poway Symphony Orchestra in a number of ways, including acknowledgment in printed materials and on the website.