About the PNCO

In 1979, an effort to provide string music education to students in the Lewis County area resulted in the formation of the Pacific Northwest Youth Orchestra.  This organization was backed by area musicians and passionate community members, and for a number of years offered an opportunity for musical growth to high school students as it presented a cultural benefit to the community.

Over a decade later, the non-profit orchestra association officially changed its name to the Pacific Northwest Chamber Orchestra, presenting its first concert in December 2003.  As a community orchestra, PNCO gives opportunity for students and area amateur and professional musicians to combine efforts, experiencing the joy of making great music together.

PNCO's first conductor was Dee Morton, whose "temporary" position ended six years later when David Judd picked up the baton, leading the orchestra until his retirement in 2017.  Dr. Joshua Friedlander stepped to the podium in September of 2017 and has, as has each conductor before him, contributed his own flair to the orchestra,  inspiring a joy of performance and a desire to grow in musicianship.