Music Director
Laura O'Konski

 
Laura O'Konski "Ms. O" earned her Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from George Mason University and studied at the graduate level at Shenandoah Conservatory.  She is currently the Director of Orchestra and Chorus at Liberty High School in Bealeton, and also teaches private lessons for viola, cello, and violin, as well as being certified in teaching guitar.  A recent Grammy nominee for being an excellent music educator, she has also been asked to guest conduct at the Knoxville, Tennessee Area Junior Orchestra Clinic. Ms. O has served as a conductor for the Fauquier County Youth Orchestra since 2015, and is is also a member of Atoka Strings. She currently resides in Fredericksburg with her husband, three dogs, and two cats.

Executive Director
Tara Planeta

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Ms.Planeta holds a Master's Degree in Violin Performance with Orchestral Emphasis, and is currently a doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership.  She has enjoyed 24 years as a professional in performance and education, and is happy to bring her experience to the FYO.  Ms.Planeta is the Founder and 1st Violinist of the Atoka String Quartet based in Loudoun/Fauquier Counties, is a privtae instructor of violin at The Catoctin School of Music, and a strings director at Fresta Valley Christian School. 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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