NEWS RELEASE
Wichita Symphony Orchestra
April 21, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
162 Years of Service Recognized in Retiring Symphony Musicians
Wichita, KS – At its final concert in the 80th Anniversary Season on April 12, the Wichita Symphony recognized four musicians who announced their retirement. Collectively, the group of musicians represents 162 years of service to the Wichita Symphony, two of whom served over forty years.
Each musician received an engraved award with their name and years of service. They also received lifetime season tickets to the Wichita Symphony.
Honored musicians were violinist Chelley Graves (37 years of service), tuba Phillip Black (39 years of service), violist Cynthia Cook (42 years of service), and trumpet Gray Bishop (44 years of service).
“These musicians have brought not only extraordinary talent to the stage, but also a deep commitment to our community,” said Music Director and Conductor Daniel Hege. “We will miss them and extend our congratulations and best wishes.”
Founded in 1944, the Wichita Symphony Orchestra is the largest professional symphony in the State of Kansas. It is one of the leading cultural organizations in the region whose mission is to enrich, educate, and entertain diverse audiences through performances of orchestral music.
Pictured (left to right): Gray Bishop, Phillip Black, Cynthia Cook, Chelley Graves, and Tim Storhoff
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Contact: Nina Longhofer, Marketing Director
Phone: (316) 267-5259, ext. 104
Email: nlonghofer@wso.org
Please upgrade
![]()
Internet Explorer
|
or try one of these other browsers.
Browsers are free and easy to install.
|
||||
Upgrade Internet Explorer | What's a browser? Opt out |