ABOUT WCO
CHRIS CZERW, CONDUCTOR
Christopher Czerw is a music teacher and director of orchestras at Valhalla Middle/High School, a role he’s held since 2010.
He holds an M.A. in music education from Hunter College and an M.M. in music education with conducting specialization from Colorado State University. He has previously performed in jazz ensembles, rock bands, as well as college and community orchestras as a bassist and violinist, including the Orchard Park Symphony Orchestra and New York Repertory Orchestra.
A graduate of the Sound Recording Technology program at SUNY Fredonia, he has worked in a wide array of music venues and theaters as a live sound engineer. In addition to his current teaching duties, he is also the technical director at Valhalla U.F.S.D., overseeing lighting, sound, and video production for school events.
William Eckfeld (1951-2026) was our conductor from 2016 until his passing. Bill was a musician of many talents: a professional bassist, an orchestra conductor, a prolific composer, and a dedicated educator who inspired musicians of all ages and many generations. He will be remembered for his dedication, generosity, inspiration, and kindness.
MEMBER COMMENTS
“I joined the orchestra after I retired and had not played an instrument since high school. Attending WCO rehearsals has introduced me to an entirely new and interesting group of people of all ages, backgrounds, interests, and talents, all of whom have a common objective: the pleasure of music. Play on ...” -wind player
“I am so thankful to have found WCO. I'm a novice, playing my instrument for only one year and while I may play an off note occasionally (or every few minutes) and struggle to keep pace with this nimble-fingered crew, I only receive support and positive comments. Another player has become something of a mentor to me and our conductor is always happy to answer questions about difficult passages. I also love that I am getting to know a wide range of people I never would have found otherwise. It's hard to explain the magic that happens when we all come together to create music. I really do cherish WCO!”
-string player
"I look forward to the peace and quiet every other Monday night." -string player's wife
“I discovered WCO at a time in my life when I needed a distraction. Dusting off my instrument and playing along with other amateur musicians reminded me how much joy music brings to my life.” -wind player
“I joined WCO when I was relatively new to the area. I have played in orchestras and am in several, I have enjoyed playing music on my level in this orchestra and have begun to make friends. I look forward to continuing playing in this orchestra for years to come.” -violin player
"I’m always amazed that people actually come to our concerts, stay till the end and clap! It gives me lots of hope for the world!" -string player
“As a new member of the White Plains community, I was looking for social activities. I had played in musical groups since third grade and missed this and desperately needed the sense of belonging. In WCO, we are our own family with our own quirks and stories. I am a new member and hope to be here for a long time.” -wind player
"It was dark and gloomy out when I joined WCO, but spring came and I made some new friends along with learning some great music." -string player
“I went to my first rehearsal and I was so scared; at first no sound came out because my lip shook from nervousness. I somehow got through that first rehearsal and keep going back. I adore it!” -brass player
"I got the chance I wanted, to switch from the lowly violin to the grand double bass! I am so fortunate that WCO more than allowed me to play a new instrument, but welcomed it!" -string player