Barbara Spicher
Photo by Mark Muse
Friends of Music was established in 1999 and has been a freestanding non-profit organization since 2015. Our mission is to promote musical excellence in the region by presenting first-rate orchestra and small-ensemble concerts. We also support music education in local schools.
Through all these activities, we seek to:
- share inspiring music in committed performance and lively discussion,
- support local and regional musicians, and
- strengthen the training of current and future musicians.
Above all, Friends of Music is dedicated to live music—a vital human need predating the written word. We believe that experiencing this powerful expression in the communities where we live and work offers benefits to people of all ages, races, and income levels, and improves our lives here immensely.
Our performances center around the Two Rivers Chamber Orchestra, a professional orchestra that we present, manage, and fund. The orchestra performs three concerts yearly. We also present professional small-ensemble concerts.
Meet Our 2024-2025 Scott Beard Intern:
Matthew Jagela
We are pleased to welcome Matthew to Friends of Music. A Shepherd University music major, Matthew began his Sophomore year this fall and is proficient with several instruments — most notably trombone, bass trombone, tuba, and piano. Learn more in this Journal article»
FOM Administrator Sherry Sykes with Matthew Jagela
Many patrons support Friends of Music through an annual membership.
The $175 fee covers admission to all five of the season’s concerts (saving $15 off individual ticket prices). By purchasing a membership even after concerts have begun, you are helping to indicate support for Friends of Music activities, something that appeals to our sponsors at the State Arts Council, foundations and corporate contributors.
A personalized membership card replaces “will call” tickets and may be shown at the door. In addition to free concert admission, members receive advance email delivery of concert program notes; invitations to attend all Chamber Orchestra rehearsals and special events; and discounts on composer biographies and other music books at Four Seasons Books.
Two Rivers Chamber Orchestra
Two Rivers Chamber Orchestra is funded in part by the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History. Our overall operations are supported by a host of individual, foundation, and corporate sponsors as well as advertisers. A special role is played by our Friends of Music members, whose early and continuing support helps assure financial stability.
Jed Gaylin, Music Director
Our Music Director, Jed Gaylin, oversees our musical offerings and conducts the Two Rivers Chamber Orchestra. Jed is an internationally recognized conductor, and much loved by our musicians and the entire Friends of Music audience.
Supporting Music Education
Our support for music education in local schools includes grants for instruments and music-related supplies, as well as music scholarships to graduating seniors, an internship for a Shepherd University student, and direct outreach to teachers in Berkeley & Jefferson counties. To date, we have provided more than $25,000 in school grants and over $12,500 in scholarships. Free and reduced rate tickets for Eastern Panhandle teachers and students are available on a space available basis; registration is required.
FRIENDS OF MUSIC, INC. • PO BOX 220 • SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV 25443 • 304-876-5765 • info@friendswv.org