Oregon East Symphony

The Oregon East Symphony & Chorale (OES) is a prominent musical organization that has been enriching the cultural landscape of Pendleton and its surrounding rural areas in Oregon for over three decades. The organization is renowned for delivering high-quality musical experiences and events to the community. Governance of the OES is overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors, which ensures the organization's mission and goals are achieved. The day-to-day operations are managed by a dedicated team led by an executive director, supported by office staff. This management team, along with numerous committed volunteers, orchestrates an annual concert season that delights audiences and supports local musicians. The Music Director and Conductor of the Oregon East Symphony & Chorale is Beau Benson, who travels from Waco, Texas, to lead three symphony performances each season. Educaiton Di serves as the assistant conductor and also conducts the A Sharp Players, while Steve Muller, a local talent from Pendleton, holds the position of Chorale Director. Musicians who perform with the OES are drawn from a wide geographic area within the Pacific Northwest. They come from various cities including Portland, Eugene, Joseph, Baker City, and La Grande in Oregon, as well as Spokane, Pullman, Vancouver, Tacoma, Ellensburg, Yakima, Tri-Cities, and Walla Walla in Washington. The symphony encourages musicians of all ages to explore their musical potential and welcomes them to join the ensemble that best matches their skill level. In addition to its regular concert series, the OES is deeply committed to fostering musical education among the youth through its "Playing for Keeps" initiative. This comprehensive project includes two preparatory orchestras, a mentorship program for young musicians, scholarships for instrument rentals and music lessons, and the provision of free concert tickets for students. The Board of Directors of the Oregon East Symphony & Chorale includes John Wilson as President, Sylvia Clawson as Vice President, Mona Hern as Treasurer, and Kate Bottorff as Secretary. The board also comprises members such as Steve Bass, Gabrielle Bedolla (Youth Board Member), Kimberly Chavez-Sierra, Margaret Gianotti, Michelle Grable, Alice Hepburn, Harriet Isom, Jacob Try, Mireya Wolf, and Wanda Wyrick, all of whom play vital roles in the governance and success of the organization. The OES has a history of not only providing musical entertainment but also nurturing the musical talents of the community, making it a cornerstone of the arts in the Pacific Northwest region.