Join Peoria Women’s Club and the Peoria Symphony Orchestra Guild for a presentation and recital with Maestro George Stelluto and guest artist Rong-Yan Tang, guest violinist for the Peoria Symphony Orchestra’s Seasons at the Cathedral concerts. Light refreshments will be served.
RSVPs are encouraged as seating is limited. Please call 309.671.1096 to RSVP. Doors open at 12:30pm.
PSO Guild Members: Free
Guests: $10 (pay at the door)
About Our Partnership:
The Peoria Women's Club (PWC) and the Peoria Symphony Orchestra Guild share a rich historical connection rooted in community and cultural development. Established in 1886, PWC has long been a hub for initiatives aimed at improving Peoria, including music education. Charter member Elizabeth Plowe played a pivotal role in this mission, as her family was instrumental in founding the Peoria Conservatory of Music and the city's first symphony orchestra.
In 1951, the "Women's Symphony Guild" was formed to support the Peoria Symphony Orchestra, with many of its founding members also affiliated with the PWC. The guild's first president, Mrs. Nelda Fernsted, was a former president of PWC. Their collaborative spirit continues to thrive, exemplified by the guild's inaugural fundraising event, a Musical Tea organized by PWC member Mrs. Russell F. Peters in 1952. Together, both organizations have significantly contributed to the cultural fabric of Peoria.
Meet Rong-Yan Tang, Violinist
We are excited to welcome Rong-Yan Tang, a prominent violinist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra since 2003, appointed by Daniel Barenboim. A graduate of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, she studied in the U.S. on full scholarship under esteemed instructors, including Camilla Wicks and Donald Weilerstein.
Previously, as the associate concertmaster of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Rong-Yan performed as a soloist across China, Hong Kong, and France, as well as with various U.S. orchestras. A protégé of Isaac Stern, she plays on a violin from his private collection and has performed at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall by his invitation.
As the first violinist of the Fry Street Quartet, she has appeared in prestigious series such as Carnegie Hall’s Rising Stars. Rong-Yan's accolades include the Millennium Grand Prize at the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition. Currently, she engages the community through performances in the CSO’s Chamber Music series and educational concerts at Chicago Public Schools.
What’s the Peoria Symphony Orchestra Guild (PSO Guild)?
The Peoria Symphony Orchestra Guild, founded in 1951, supports the Peoria Symphony Orchestra by promoting its performances and enhancing educational outreach. Membership is open to all—no musical background is required!
The Guild focuses on:
Youth Outreach: Programs like the Puppet Troupe for K-3 students and annual Student Concerts.
Supporting Young Talent: The Young Artist Competition, open to musicians 18 and under, allows them to perform with the Symphony and win scholarships.
Community Engagement: Events such as Musical Bridges, luncheons, and social gatherings.
Musician Appreciation: Hospitality at rehearsals and receptions.
Members can attend performances like this one for free. Join here to support music education and enjoy the benefits!