The West Virginia Symphony plays an important role in bringing music, culture, and artistic connection to communities across the state. Led by Conductor and Music Director Maurice Cohn, the Symphony is the largest performing arts institution in West Virginia and the state’s largest employer of artists.
Each year, the West Virginia Symphony employs more than 300 artists and performs for tens of thousands of people in communities throughout the state, including Charleston, Parkersburg, Clarksburg, Lewisburg, Morgantown, and beyond. Through these performances, the Symphony helps make world-class orchestral music available to audiences across West Virginia.
For Conn, who is now in his third season as music director, being part of West Virginia’s artistic community has been an incredible experience. He describes the state as home to a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and audiences who value the power of live performance.
One of the Symphony’s core missions is to make great orchestral music accessible to anyone who wants to experience it. That mission is especially clear through Symphony Sunday, a free, family-friendly event that brings music to the community in a welcoming and enjoyable setting.
Symphony Sunday centers around great music throughout the day and concludes with a performance by the West Virginia Symphony along the Kanawha River, accompanied by fireworks in the background. The event creates a memorable experience while reinforcing the importance of orchestral music as something that belongs to everyone.
Beyond the Symphony’s evening performance, Symphony Sunday also celebrates the wide range of music being made throughout the region. The day includes performances by community bands, youth orchestras, barbershop quartets, and other ensembles. These groups help showcase the depth of musical talent found throughout the Kanawha Valley and across West Virginia.
For many musicians, Symphony Sunday feels like a homecoming. It brings together professional musicians, community musicians, families, and music lovers for a shared celebration. It also gives local musicians who may not perform professionally the chance to take part in a major community event alongside the Symphony.
Support from the Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation has been important to the Symphony’s continued success. That partnership helps make events like Symphony Sunday possible while also supporting collaborations across the state.
For an artistic institution, stable support is especially valuable. Cohn explained that creating art requires risk, and organizations are better able to take creative risks when they have a strong foundation of stability, security, and predictability. Partnerships with organizations like the Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation help provide that foundation.
The West Virginia Symphony is honored to receive the 2026 Changemaker Award and is grateful for the Foundation’s many years of support. Through performances, community events, collaborations, and educational impact, the Symphony continues to enrich lives and strengthen the cultural fabric of West Virginia.