Performer Details
Performer Bio Synopsis
The Westminster Schools' orchestra program, minutes from downtown Atlanta, encompasses a diverse student body of 1,800 from 82 zip codes across the Metro area. Established in 1981 by Peg Neuen, the program has flourished, offering a string orchestra education from 3rd grade to graduation across eight distinct ensembles: Third Grade Orchestra through Eighth Grade Orchestra, Philharmonia, and Chamber Orchestra. Unique to Westminster, the chamber music component engages all members in smaller, intimate ensembles, fostering individual musical growth alongside group performance.
Our Middle School Orchestra distinguishes itself with an active performance schedule. Notable appearances include the Georgia Governor's Mansion holiday events, community performances, and service-learning engagements like those at Orchard Heights Gracious Retirement Living Center and Walt Disney World. The group has also graced venues such as the High Museum of Art, with performances aligning with significant exhibits in 2014-15 and 2015-16, and was honored with an invitation to the GMEA state conference in 2020. In 2023, the Westminster Festival Orchestra achieved 2nd place at the ASTA National Orchestra Festival.
Individual achievements within the orchestras are equally impressive, with numerous students participating in prestigious groups such as the GMEA All-State Orchestras, Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra, Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra, and Atlanta Festival Chamber Orchestra. Participation in programs like Franklin Pond, Fall into Spring, and the Emory Youth Chamber Music Program highlights the dedication and talent of our students, further enriching the Westminster orchestral experience.
The Westminster Middle School Orchestra
Conductor's Bio
Originally from Seoul, Korea, Bo Kyung Na embarked on her musical journey at the age
of ten, quickly earning admission to the prestigious Sun Hwa Arts School by the age of
12. Her passion for the cello led her to Denmark, where she continued her studies under
the guidance of Andres Gron at the Royal Conservatory in Copenhagen. Later, during her
middle school years in Athens, Georgia, she refined her skills further through private
studies with Dr. David Starkweather.
Bo Kyung Na holds Bachelor's and Master of Music degrees in Cello Performance from
the University of Georgia, where she received a scholarship throughout her four-year
tenure. During the pursuit of her master's degree, she was honored with the J. Kimball
Harriman Award. Currently, Mrs. Na serves as the Middle School Orchestra Director at
the Westminster Schools in Atlanta, having previously directed orchestras at Creekland
Middle School, North Gwinnett Middle School, and Hull Middle School.
Orchestras under her guidance consistently garnered recognition, with notable
performances at state and national conferences. In 2009, Creekland Middle School was
selected to perform at the GMEA state conference, followed by North Gwinnett Middle
School in 2012. The pinnacle came in 2014 when North Gwinnett Middle School
showcased its talent at the prestigious Midwest Clinic International Band, Orchestra,
and Music Conference in Chicago. In 2020, the Westminster Junior Chamber Orchestra
made a mark at the GMEA state conference, and in 2023, the Westminster Festival
Orchestra received 2nd place at the ASTA National Orchestra Festival.
Mrs. Na actively contributes to the music education community as a Georgia Music Educators Association member, where she serves as an All-State Orchestra organizer.
She has also been president of the American String Teachers Association, Georgia Chapter.
Beyond her musical endeavors, Mrs. Na finds joy in spending time with her husband,
Tony and their boys, Alex and Eric. Together, they indulge in travel and enjoy staying
active.
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