EarRelevant Staff | 21 JUL 2025
MARIETTA, Georgia— As it prepares to celebrate its 75th anniversary season, the Georgia Symphony Orchestra has named Rebecca Strojan Weaver as the new chair of its board of directors and extended the contract of Music Director cc through the 2026–2027 season.
Weaver, a consultant and change leader with Collective Insights, officially stepped into the role on July 1. A parent of a Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra (GYSO) member and a lifelong music enthusiast, she joined the board in early 2024. She succeeds Michael Knowles, senior vice president at Fifth Third Bank, following a planned leadership transition.
“Music connects me to my family’s past and future—it’s a thread that ties generations together,” Weaver said in a statement. “I believe in the transformative power of music—not only as an art form, but as a vital force in education and in building stronger, more connected communities.”
Weaver’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the organization, which is also marking the 20th anniversary season of its youth symphony.
Timothy Verville, music director of the Georgia Symphony Orchestra. (credit: Keitaro Harada)
In another significant development, the board has approved a two-year extension for Verville, who is entering his 10th season with the GSO. Under his leadership, the symphony has expanded its artistic offerings and deepened its community engagement.
“The past nine years have brought many highs and lows—from the depths of the pandemic to the shared joy of sold-out performances,” Verville said. “I couldn’t imagine a better place to be or a more meaningful way to serve this wonderful community than through the power of music.”
The GSO includes a full symphony orchestra, chorus, jazz ensemble, and youth symphony orchestras. Founded in 1951, the Marietta-based ensemble has earned a reputation for adventurous programming and a strong educational mission.
With Weaver and Verville at the helm, the GSO enters its diamond anniversary season, focused on honoring its legacy while contributing to the building of a vibrant future for classical music in Metro Atlanta.
Season details and subscription information are available at www.georgiasymphony.org. ■
EXTERNAL LINKS:
- Georgia Symphony Orchestra: www.georgiasymphony.org
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