About Us
- On this page:
- Meet the Conductor
- History
- Board Members
- Join the Orchestra
Pasadena Community Orchestra (PCO) is a non-profit organization supported by donations from individuals and companies that recognize the importance of continuing the great tradition of music in the community for both players and performers.
PCO strives to enrich the community by providing an opportunity for everyone to hear fine music free of charge and to provide a setting where amateur musicians can perform classical music. The orchestra also sponsors a competition in which young musicians may audition to win a stipend and have an opportunity to solo with a symphony orchestra.
We are planning our 2021-2022 concert season and are very excited to offer full-orchestra concerts for our community, starting in the fall. Please check back as we update the website with concert dates. Be sure to sign up for our Newsletter to learn the latest news, and in the meantime, please enjoy our Past +Present Video Series.
MEET THE CONDUCTOR
Bethany Pflueger has been the conductor of the PCO since fall of 2013. She has also served as conductor for the Glendale College Orchestra, Opera Pasadena, and has guest conducted area professional and semi-professional orchestras. Ms. Pflueger is an active flutist, conductor and educator, and is now Professor Emeritus from Glendale Community College. She has had an active career performing in the greater Los Angeles area, which includes a Grammy award for an ensemble performance. Ms. Pflueger is a resident of Sierra Madre.
HISTORY
In 1983, a group of local musicians, led by Conductor Wayne Reinecke, made their dream a reality with the founding of Pasadena Community Orchestra. The original group of musicians and board members were volunteers who possessed energy, passion, and vision. The first rehearsal and performance venue was the Methodist Church of Pasadena. In 1987, PCO was invited to move their concerts to First Church of the Nazarene, Pasadena (PazNaz), where they continue to perform today.
Following the retirement of founder Wayne Reinecke, the orchestra appointed long-time PCO timpanist Alan Reinecke, in 2008. Building on the strong foundation established by his predecessor, Alan brought to the orchestra a clear vision for its future. With Alan’s departure in spring 2013, PCO selected Ms. Bethany Pflueger, an active flutist, conductor and educator in the southern California area. “I look forward to the opportunity to continue the tradition of excellence this orchestra has,” Pflueger told PCO musicians at her introduction in May of that year. A longtime resident of Sierra Madre, Pflueger also relishes the chance to stimulate even more interest in the community to support live, local music.
PCO has grown to a full orchestra comprised of 60 to 70 members from the greater Pasadena area, who volunteer their time and talent to bring great music to the public free of charge. PCO musicians come from all walks of life; there are doctors, lawyers, teachers, artists, and photographers. A handful of the founding musicians continue to play in the orchestra, and founders Wayne and Sue Reinecke continue to be involved in an advisory capacity.
The organization continues its strong commitment to music education programming through the Young Artist Competition and the Concert in the Park, which takes place at the end of each season in Sierra Madre Memorial Park. PCO is supported by donations from individuals and companies, including grants from city and county agencies, which recognize the importance of continuing the great tradition of music in the community.
BOARD MEMBERS
Mary Thornton House, President
Tammy Cognetta
Donald Fisher
Thom Fountain
Gary Green
Hon Hong-yi
Joe Kertes
Eric Kirchhoff
Stephen Unwin
The Board of Directors is made up of volunteers who are passionate about arts and music in the San Gabriel Valley. Board members assist in the planning and ‘vision-making’ of the organization and meet regularly to oversee the general welfare of the orchestra. They also roll up their sleeves and assist in executing events, fundraising, and more. If you are interested in applying to join this dynamic group of people, please call us at (626) 445-6708.
INTERESTED IN JOINING THE ORCHESTRA?
The Pasadena Community Orchestra is a dedicated group of musicians who volunteer their time and talent. The Orchestra rehearses every Wednesday night (except holidays) from 7:30-10pm in the Pasadena area from September to mid-June. All players commit to regular attendance.
If you are interested, please email us at conductor@pcomusic.org for current openings and audition information. Please mention which instrument you play, and previous ensemble playing experience. For more information on the Orchestra, view past concert programs and learn more about us.