Executive Director

Tara Planeta

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Ms.Planeta holds a Master's Degree in Violin Performance with Orchestral Emphasis, and is currently pursuing of Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership degree.  She has enjoyed 23 years as a professional in performance and education, and is happy to bring that experience to the FYO.  Ms.Planeta is the Founder and 1st Violinist of the Atoka String Quartet based in Loudoun/Fauquier Counties, and has a full teaching studio at The Catoctin School of Music in Leesburg. She began her own youth orchestra experience 30 years ago, when her parents would drive her 1.5 hours each way to another city for the opportunity to participate.

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Conductor

Laura O'Konski

 

Laura O'Konski "Ms. O" is an active teacher and performer in the Northern Virginia region. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from George Mason University, and is a member of the Atoka String Quartet. She is currently the Director of Orchestra and Chorus at Liberty High School in Bealeton, and also maintains a private studio teaching viola, cello, and violin .  Ms.O has served as a conductor for the Fauquier County Youth Orchestra since 2015. She currently resides in Fredericksburg with her husband, two dogs, and two cats.