Southern Delaware Orchestra

== SODELO == '''SODELO''' (Southern Delaware Orchestra) is a community orchestra based in Southern Delaware, United States. The organization was co-founded by Steve Greifer, Eva DelGallo, and James Allen Anderson in early 2022. It was established with the mission of creating a wonderful experience for both musicians and the community, aspiring to be a long-standing member of the cultural scene in Southern Delaware. === History === The story of SODELO began in February 2022 when Steve Greifer started looking for musicians to play chamber music via local social media, in anticipation of his move to Milton in April of that year. Eva DelGallo, a violinist from Lewes and a retired school orchestra conductor, responded with a vision that extended beyond a simple quartet. She saw the enthusiastic response from the string-playing community as an opportunity to realize her dream of forming an orchestra in Southern Delaware. The third co-founder, James Allen Anderson, who is the head of Orchestral Studies at the University of Delaware, was approached for his guidance in finding a musical leader. To the founders' surprise, Anderson volunteered to lead the orchestra himself. By May 3, 2022, an unnamed group of thirty string musicians held their first rehearsal. A few months later, on July 16, the newly named, formed, incorporated, and recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Southern Delaware Orchestra, performed its inaugural concert at Bethel United Methodist Church in Lewes. The performance was met with a standing ovation from a capacity audience. === Present === As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, SODELO has grown to encompass a full orchestra and enjoys the support of many friends in the southern Delaware community. The orchestra practices every Tuesday night and has a full roster of upcoming concerts planned. Its members include a diverse group of individuals ranging from retirees and active professional musicians to talented teenagers. SODELO is committed to enriching the cultural life of Southern Delaware through music and aims to provide both its musicians and audiences with enriching experiences. === Leadership === The Board of Directors of SODELO includes: * Stephen Greifer, President * Eva DelGallo, Vice President * Wayne Eichler, Treasurer * Charles Bachman * Anthony Gizzi * Jeffrey P. Indrisano * Carol Ann Pala * Domi Sanchez * Mary Jane Vanvestraut The Artistic Advisory Board includes: * James Allen Anderson, Music Director * Eva DelGallo * Anthony Gizzi * Michael Marotta * Diane Baxter Neutzling * Frederick Geiersbach SODELO continues to welcome new members and supporters, and invites interested individuals to join their mailing list for updates on performances and events. The organization has been praised for its "phenomenal performance," "excellent program," and "wonderful musicians playing for the pleasure of making music together," as noted by a review from Jon A.