Philharmonia
Studying Symphonic Literature & Styles
This symphony orchestra provides many young musicians their first opportunity to perform professional orchestral repertoire and plays a wide variety of challenging original works. This ensemble includes 110 middle and high school musicians.
At a Glance
- 110 musicians
- Rehearsals generally on Thursday evenings
- Most students are in grades 7-12
- Music Director: Mr. Daniel Duffy
Upcoming Events
The Philharmonia Staff
Daniel Duffy
Position: Artistic Administrator | Philharmonia Music Director
Categories: Administration, Orchestral & Musical Studies
Daniel Duffy has enjoyed serving as Music Director of MYSO’s Philharmonia since 2014 and joined the MYSO administrative team as Artistic Administrator in 2020.
Mr. Duffy retired as director of instrumental music at Waukesha West High School in 2020. His public school teaching career spanned 35 years and included successful music programs in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Prior to his appointment at Waukesha West, he served as Associate Director of Bands at Kansas State University.
His educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from The Ohio State University and a Master’s degree in Conducting from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where he served as a Graduate Conducting Associate.
Passionate about the achievement of excellence through musical performance, Mr. Duffy served on the board of directors of the National Band Association Wisconsin Chapter, was the NBA Wisconsin All-State Band Coordinator, and served as percussion section coach of the Wisconsin School Music Association State Honors Band and Orchestra.
Mr. Duffy’s performance groups have received critical acclaim at regional and national events since 1985. Ensembles under his direction have performed at three WMEA State Music Conferences, eight National Band Association Wisconsin State Conventions, and four NFL half-time shows for the Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings. He also coordinated performance tours in Boston, Dallas, New Orleans, St. Louis, Orlando, Washington, D.C., and New York City.