GNSO History

The story of the GSNO begins in 1995 as the brainchild of Dr. Woomyung Choe. Dr. Choe began by assembling a Board of enthusiastic community members and strong local performers who shared the belief that Newburgh was a cultural center, befitting a good orchestra. Rehearsals and concerts were initially conducted at Newburgh Free Academy and local music educators did all they could to feed and encourage the orchestra’s growth and success.

Founding Board members George Handler, Elaine Simpson, Josephine Giacco, Noreen Davis, Fred McCurdy, and many others provided logistical support and direction in organizing and developing the orchestra. Gordon Shacklett furnished regular pre-concert lectures and wonderful programming assistance, and with the help of a dedicated team, ensured every concert was a quality cultural experience for the community. Guest artists from all over the tri-state area drew increasingly large audiences and collaborations with the Newburgh Chorale and West Point Cadet Chapel Choir served to strengthen the orchestra’s popularity.

After 20 years under the leadership of Dr. Choe, the orchestra and its audience had grown and the time was right for a new Music Director.  A search committee was formed and during the 2015-16 concert season an extensive search was undertaken.  Over 100 applicants were considered and from that pool four outstanding candidates were selected.  After a season that featured each guest conductor in turn, the Board enthusiastically elected Maestro Russell Ger to the position. 

Maestro Ger has since propelled the GNSO to a new level of artistic excellence. His incredible energy and colorful programming have already borne much fruit. With record attendance and unprecedented community engagement, we look forward to each season as Maestro Ger and the GNSO continue to provide a wealth of master works – both old and new – for the community of the Mid-Hudson Valley.

George Handler and Fred McCurdy were critical in steering the GNSO through its first 20 years. They provided the administrative and financial leadership necessary for the music to flourish. Mr. Handler, a highly successful insurance executive, raised the initial funds for the Orchestra and served as its president for 10 years.  He was subsequently succeeded by Mr. McCurdy, an entrepreneur who founded a Newburgh company (GTI) in 1975 that now serves customers worldwide. Mr. McCurdy also served as Board President for a decade, and was honored along with his wife, Betsy, at the GNSO's first Benefit Brunch in 2014. The next year, the co-honorees, fittingly, were founding Music Director, Dr. Woomyung Choe and Mr. Handler.