Meredith Riley Hired as Alexandria Symphony’s Director of Education
Posted Sep 15, 2021 | ASO News, Press Releases,
Alexandria, VA—As evidence of Alexandria Symphony Orchestra’s commitment to expanding Sympatico’s footprint in our city, Meredith Riley joins ASO as Director of Education this fall. An experienced chamber musician and teacher, Riley served as Assistant Principal Second Violin of the Richmond Symphony and currently tours with the Sphinx Virtuosi. Riley plans to strengthen Sympatico’s connection to its El Sistema roots and actively seek performance and collaboration opportunities to highlight this unique program.
“After all the screen time and the complete absence of social engagement and live performance, our community needs live music now!” says Ms. Riley. “I will be actively seeking performance and collaboration opportunities to highlight this important and unique program that is so deserving of community recognition and support.”
For 15 years, Meredith has worked with the Sphinx Organization, dedicated to the development of young Black and Latino classical musicians. In addition to her work with the Sphinx Virtuosi, Meredith has recently appeared with the Chamber Music Society of Central Virginia, Wintergreen Music Festival, Collectif 9, and the Smithsonian Chamber Players. Meredith is an adjunct violin faculty member at Virginia Commonwealth University.
“Meredith’s musicianship and gift for working with young people will help us take ASO Sympatico to the next level,” says ASO Executive Director George Hanson. “The kids will be able to see her perform onstage as a member of ASO, deepening the opportunity for musical connection.”
“My experience with the Sphinx Organization has only strengthened my commitment and passion for diversifying the artistic canvas and making music accessible to all,” says Ms. Riley. “I look forward to working toward that in my home community of Alexandria!”
About Sympatico
Sympatico will resume in-person instruction beginning this fall. This award-winning music education program serves two Title I schools in Alexandria City, fully underwritten by ASO and offered at no cost to the students or the schools. Six ensembles will resume at John Adams Elementary: beginning and intermediate mallets (Orff), chorus, two bucket bands and mixed strings. At Patrick Henry K-8 ASO plans to resume instruction in the second semester with a mixed instrument ensemble. Both Patrick Henry K-8 and John Adams Elementary have diverse student populations, representing over 100 nationalities and speaking more than 40 languages. ASO expects the program to reach 180 students this school year.
