Pacific Rim Symphony Orchestra

03/20/2026

The University’s Pacific Rim Symphony Orchestra is closing out the semester in style! 🎻🔥

This isn’t your average afternoon concert. Under the direction of Qinqing Qian, we celebrate both student excellence and timeless storytelling.

The afternoon opens with performances by our talented Willamette University Concerto Competition winners from last semester, showcasing the artistry that earned them top honors. Then, we’re delighted to present Prokofiev’s beloved Peter and the Wolf—narrated by a special guest: University President Steve Thorsett.

Yes, you read that right! Our president is stepping up to the mic to bring the story to life, backed by the orchestra. It’s the kind of thing you have to see (and hear) to believe.

Come celebrate our musicians, witness some serious solo talent, and find out what happens when the university’s leader becomes the ultimate storyteller.

Sunday, April 19 | 3 pm at Hudson Hall
See you there! 🎶

02/15/2026

Feb.14 Soundscape of America Concert

Willamette University’s Pacific Rim Symphony Orchestra confidently showcases American music to our community.

Video credit: Karmyn Sindlinger


Qian Qinqing Willamette University Music Department

02/15/2026

The second recital happening TODAY is Shades of Blue, Hanna Rowe’s senior flute recital! 🎉
Come see the culmination of her work, along with accompanist Crystal Zimmerman, at 7:00pm on 2/15 in Hudson Concert Hall! Admission is free

02/14/2026

I had an exciting workshop with the North Salem High School Chamber Orchestra yesterday. Thanks to their Orchestra Director Maestro Rittenour’s invitation. They have wonderful young musicians!
Truly inspiring 👍
North Salem High School Willamette University Music Department Qian Qinqing

02/05/2026

Experience America’s soundtrack with Willamette University’s Pacific Rim Symphony Orchestra (PRSO)!

12/03/2025

As we wrap up the semester, we proudly showcase the incredible progress of our small ensemble students — thanks to the dedication of our Artist Associates and students' hard work. They sounded wonderful!👏🏻🎫

12/02/2025

12/02/2025

Last night, we were able to rehearse in Willamette University's historic Cone Chapel for our upcoming Holiday Concert.

We invite you to ring in the holiday season with us Dec. 20–21 in Willamette's Hudson Concert Hall. With special guests the Trail Sextet and South Salem High School Symphonic Choir!

Get your tickets today: https://www.willamettemasterchorus.org/concerts.php

11/21/2025

Big applause for our WU Percussion Ensemble! Here is a message from the Ensemble Director, Justin Preece:

The Willamette University Percussion Ensemble has grown from 2 to 7 members in just two years and has steadily developed their performance experience in Convocation events, shared programs with other ensembles, and one-off special events.

Tomorrow evening's concert is a big step forward. This is the first full, independent percussion concert hosted by this chamber group since before the pandemic. The students are excited for the opportunity; they've been working very hard to prepare.

11/05/2025

A huge congratulations to all the students who performed in this year's Concerto Competition! 🎉

We're thrilled to announce the winners:

🏆 Vocal Division: 1st: Katie Wingo | 2nd: Rowan Cosgrove | Hon. Mention: Rylan Rodrigues-Zahn

🏆 Instrumental Division: 1st: Elliott Lewenstein | 2nd: Hanna Rowe | Hon. Mention: Eva Floyd

Our first-place winners will perform with the Symphony Orchestra this spring! A special THANK YOU to our judges, accompanists, and everyone who supports our talented students. 👏

10/19/2025

👻 Yay! See you on Oct. 19th at 4 pm!

Hauntcert 2025: Press Start is this Sunday, October 19th at 4:00pm in Hudson Concert Hall!!! 👾🎉

Join us for a musical adventure where the controller is the orchestra and the screen is your imagination. The Pacific Rim Symphony Orchestra's program is a journey through iconic soundscapes, from the 8-bit realms of video games to the dramatic stages of ballet and the spooky streets of Halloween Town. So, press start, and let the quest begin!

Admission is free and costumes are encouraged! See you there!👻