The New York Times called her conducting "rapturous" and "richly textured and emotionally compelling." The Cleveland Plain Dealer called her "a galvanizing presence," and the Chicago Tribune called her conducting "rousing and joyous." The Boston Globe wrote, "Under her baton the music breathes, lilts, romps, sighs and sparkles," and four times selected her performances as Best Musical Events of the Year.

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Her conducting credits include the Czech Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra, Odense Danish Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Boston Lyric Opera, Cleveland Orchestra members in benefit concerts, and concerts at the Hollywood Bowl. Yo-Yo Ma, André Previn, Lynn Harrell, Claude Frank, Peter Serkin, and Emanuel Ax were among her guest soloists. She has recorded for Bridge and Albany Records, and The American Record Guide placed her Bridge Records release of the Orchestra Music of Yehudi Wyner on its 2009 Year's Top Ten.

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Under Susan Davenny Wyner's guidance, the WPO has flourished into a cultural cornerstone in the Mahoning Valley. Her passion, vision, and commitment to musical excellence have left an indelible mark on the hearts of both musicians and audiences alike.

Throughout her illustrious twenty-four-year leadership of the WPO, Susan has led the orchestra through countless memorable performances, showcasing a diverse repertoire that includes classical masterpieces and contemporary compositions by an array of composers. Her unwavering dedication to nurturing the talents of the orchestra members has contributed to the region’s music community and enriched the lives of everyone associated with the orchestra.

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In addition to her role on the podium, Susan has been a driving force behind the WPO’s outreach programs, educational initiatives, and collaborations with local artists and organizations. Her ability to connect with audiences of all ages has played a crucial role in fostering a deep appreciation for classical music within the Mahoning Valley.

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Outreach programming has included school concerts and an annual Art in Music Contest for which packets of materials about instruments, notes from the conductor, and special CDs of orchestral music were sent to third through eighth grade classroom teachers.

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The Frank R. Bodor Strings of Joy program was created in 2013 to provide free violin instruction to students in Warren City Schools and was initiated at Jefferson and Willard K-8 buildings. The after-school program was offered to students who wished to participate and used donated violins.

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Strings of Joy was revised in 2016 to offer instruction to selected Trumbull County students in grades three through seven. Instructors are WPO orchestra members and other professional musicians who are paid under a separate fund consisting of grants and community organization and individual donations. The students have twice appeared as soloists with the WPO in pieces specially written for them.

The departure of Susan Davenny Wyner as Music Director is a bittersweet moment for the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra and the entire community. The orchestra will be forever grateful for her leadership, mentorship, and the countless moments of musical magic that have enriched the lives of those fortunate enough to experience their performances.

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About the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra:

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The Warren Symphony Society, Inc., parent organization of the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra, was founded in June 1965 and has been a nonprofit organization since its inception. Its mission is to provide cultural experiences and music education throughout the Mahoning Valley. The primary goal is to provide cultural experiences that enrich the lives of all citizens, especially children.

The WPO is known for its commitment to artistic excellence. Composed of the area's finest professional musicians, performing two public concerts each year, and providing violin instruction to Trumbull County students in grades 3 through 7 through the Strings of Joy program.

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The professional musicians of the WPO have won rave reviews for the skill, virtuosity, and passion they bring to their performances. Yo-Yo Ma, superstar cellist, chose the Warren Philharmonic for his national Arts across America Project in 2018. The concert in the Warren Amphitheater drew a crowd of thousands.

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Susan Davenny Wyner will conduct her last regular concert as Music Director on Sunday, April 21, 2024. The Spring Concert entitled The Sound of Magic! takes place at the First Presbyterian Church in Warren, Ohio at 3:00 p.m. It features works by Mozart, Beethoven and more!

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The Warren Philharmonic Board of Directors will begin the search for Susan Davenny Wyner’s replacement immediately. Interested candidates may submit a letter of interest and resume/vitae via email or U.S. Mail to:

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WPO Conductor Search Committee C/O

Leanna Dunaway

154 North Park Avenue, Warren, OH 44481 330-399-3606

Email: warren.philharmonic@gmail.com

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The Warren Philharmonic Orchestra will accept applications until April 25th, 2024.