ABOUT
The Villages Philharmonic Orchestra.
Welcome to The Villages Philharmonic, a professional orchestra with a passion for excellence in musical performance since 2004. Based in Florida's friendliest hometown, our musicians are a mix of local and international performers who work with a variety of symphonic and opera groups across the country, coming together to bring the beauty of classical music to our community.
TIMELINE
Our story.
2004
2005/06
2006
2007/09
2018
2023
Today
The Villages Philharmonic Orchestra is founded, laying the foundation for professional symphonic music in the heart of Florida.
Alongside the growth of the Philharmonic, our Music Director co-founds and conducts the Florida Lakes Symphony, expanding the region's classical music offering.
A landmark moment for our artistic direction: Maestro Pasquale Valerio has the honor of assisting Sir Antonio Pappano, Music Director of the Royal Opera House and the London Symphony Orchestra — an experience that would shape the Orchestra's artistic vision for years to come.
The Orchestra's artistic network grows through a collaboration with the prestigious Viotti Music Festival in Vercelli, Italy.
The Villages Philharmonic's reach extends internationally, with our Music Director serving as guest conductor at the Northern California Music Festival.
Recognition of artistic excellence continues to grow as Maestro Valerio is appointed Visiting Professor of Orchestral Conducting Studies at the London Performing Academy of Music.
The Villages Philharmonic continues its mission, presenting 13 to 15 concerts each season at the Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, welcoming musicians who travel from across Florida and beyond to perform, alongside a dedicated group of local amateur musicians who train each Saturday, striving to one day join our professional ranks.
OUR MISSION
Bringing Music to Life
Our mission is bringing professionally performed classical, symphonic music to the community through live performance and educational outreach programs — nourishing the hearts, souls, and minds of our audience and cultivating a lasting love of music at every level, from world-class soloists to the next generation of local talent.
MUSIC DIRECTOR
Pasquale Valerio
THE MESTRO
Pasquale Valerio is an internationally renowned conductor originally from Italy.
In 2004, he founded the Villages Philharmonic Orchestra, where he serves as the Music Director, leading the ensemble in captivating performances both locally and globally.
"Music is the language that connects us all, transcending borders and cultures."
IN PERFORMANCE
Watch the Maestro at work.