The Concert Orchestra has been training tomorrow’s classical musicians since 1965, and consists of musicians from 7th – 12th grade. These committed young people comprise the organization’s most advanced string, woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians, performing the most difficult repertoire of the ensembles.
Concert Orchestra has toured Europe, British Columbia, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Chicago, Illinois, and Alaska. In addition to Youth Symphony, Concert Orchestra musicians are given the opportunity to perform in competitions, solo, and chamber music recitals. Tuition is not refundable.
Meet the Conductor
Christopher J. Woodruff has been director of bands since fall 2018. He served as associate director of bands since fall 2006, and was interim director for 2017-18. In addition to his responsibilities with the concert and athletic bands at Cal Poly, he teaches courses in music theory, music education and music appreciation.
Woodruff received the bachelor’s degree in music education at Louisiana State University and taught high school band for several years in Florida. He continued studies in conducting at Northwestern University where he received the Eckstein Band Conducting Grant and completed the master of music. While in Chicago, he served as Music Director of the Spring Valley Concert Band and was a guest conductor for the Northshore Concert Band and the Northshore Chamber Orchestra.
Mr. Woodruff maintains a full schedule of guest conducting and coaching, working with school bands and honor bands in Iowa, Pennsylvania, and California. He has presents courses on conducting, rehearsal methods and brass pedagogy. As a performer, he regularly guest conducts the San Luis Obispo Wind Orchestra and is a founding member of the Pacific Coast Brass Ensemble.