Welcome to the Podium!

by Susana Lalama
Youth Orchestra Conductor

When the Spartanburg Philharmonic Youth Orchestra announced the addition of the Junior Youth Orchestra, middle school string students, parents, and teachers were eager to find out who was going to lead these talented young musicians. We received several excellent quality music conductor applications, but there could only be one conductor to lead the Junior Strings, that is Johanna Wilson.

I had a chance to get to know Johanna over the summer and she is a delightful, experienced, energetic string teacher. She is originally from Spartanburg and is excited to be moving back to her hometown. Johanna has spent the past 44-years teaching orchestra in the greater Columbia, SC area. Under her baton, her groups were consistently recognized for outstanding musicianship and performances. With her retirement from public school teaching approaching, she knew she wanted to stay active teaching strings, and SPYO was a perfect fit. Johanna says, “I grew up working with wonderful violin teachers and orchestra conductors. I had such an awesome orchestral experience. I want to give back to the community that gave me that experience and has supported me all these years.”

Ms. Wilson is no stranger to youth orchestras. She has over ten years of experience working with the Columbia Philharmonic Youth String Orchestra in Columbia, SC. She was also a Master Teacher for the USC String Project for nineteen years. With so much teaching experience, and at all levels, I asked her what is her favorite part about teaching? Johanna states, “I love working with students! Students are so vivacious, refreshing, humorous and eager to learn and explore new things. They keep me on my toes and young!”

Her passion for teaching is palpable and her excitement increased as the conversation shifted toward the newly formed Junior String Orchestra of SPYO. When asked what the students can expect from her during rehearsals, without hesitation she said, “they can expect complete respect, kindness, compassion and communication from me as their conductor. I will give each student as much help as they need to succeed in playing the music.” Johanna went on to discuss her goal of creating positive learning and musical experiences for each student. Her philosophy is powerful, and student driven. “I think students should be unfolded rather than molded. I want to inspire each one of them and encourage them to become the best young musician and person possible.”

We definitely have a master teacher working with the Junior Youth Orchestra and I am honored to call her my colleague and friend. Welcome to the podium, Johanna Wilson!