Welcome to the Verde Valley Sinfonietta

Originally named the Verde Valley Chamber Orchestra, this ensemble was founded in September 2002 by Lelia Schoenberg, violinist and former arts administrator, and Dr. Tom Leenhouts, cellist and retired ophthalmologist. Together, they recruited well-known northern Arizona conductor Clarence Shaw as the organization’s first musical director.

Initially sponsored by Yavapai College's Sedona Center for Arts & Technology, beginning with the 2005-2006 Season, the Verde Valley Chamber Orchestra witnessed a "rebirth" as it established itself as a non-profit corporation [501(c)(3)] and expanded its Mission Statement, all under the new name of “Verde Valley Sinfonietta.”

Click HERE for a preview of the 2010-2011 Season Schedule

Mission
The Verde Valley Sinfonietta is committed to contributing to the artistic variety and quality of life enjoyed by Northern Arizona residents and to building community through presentation of live performances of the best in music literature for small orchestra.

Welcome

Music Director, David Cripps returns to celebrate to our Fifth Anniversary season with an outstanding lineup of concerts.  Maestro Cripps has planned three fulfilling programs, which he promises will challenge, educate nd delight musicians and audience alike.   In addition, he has partnered with the Master Chorale of Flagstaff for a combined performance of Handel’s Messiah.  Equally exciting is our lineup of soloists, which includes Alexander Laing, clarinet,  Maranda Childs, soprano and Anna Han, a 15 year old pianist. 

 Anna continues the Sinfonietta’s tradition of featuring a talented young musician in our final concerts of the Season.  The Emerging Artist Concert on Sunday April 25th is followed by a fundraising Soiree at the signature Sedona home of Evelyn and Anthony Winkel, where Anna Han will provide a musical interlude performed on the Winkel’s Steinway Grand piano on its 100th Birthday.  Sensational supper savories are being prepared by Barron Unger, accompanied by wine, and other beverages.  Space is limited and reservations are required. 

 The popular Kids Concert Club precedes each concert series and allows our younger audience members, and their parents or guardian, the unique opportunity of attending the orchestra dress rehearsals with a special music introduction by David Cripps and the featured soloist.  A light supper is provided and the Kids Concert Club is free of charge; although space is limited and reservations are required.

 Cottonwood performances will take place at Emmanuel Fellowship on Saturday nights at 7:00 PM. The same concert will take place at Rock of Ages Lutheran Church on Sunday at 2:30 PM.

 We hope that you will be able to join us for this exciting Fifth Anniversary season!