West Virginia Symphony Orchestra Announces Ripley High School Student Named as the Dr. James F. Dunphy Memorial Scholar

CHARLESTON, W.VA. (4/21/2025) – The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce the 2025 winner of the Dr. James F. Dunphy Memorial Scholarship, Nathan Brito.

Nathan Brito, an upcoming senior at Ripley High School in Jackson County successfully auditioned and interviewed for the scholarship, which offers private music lessons with a WVSO musician, the opportunity to attend WVSO rehearsals and concerts, and personal interaction with the Music Director Maurice Cohn.

Brito, is a euphonium player in the Ripley High School concert band, marching band, show choir band and jazz band. He began studying trumpet in elementary school but switched to euphonium in high school.  Music has taught him to learn important life skills and helps him think in a way that is applicable to make the world a better place, Brito stated.

Randall Miller, band director at Ripley High School, described Brito as a dedicated  and hard-working musician with the drive to be better and good leadership skills.  Miller wrote, “His dedication to broadening his musical experiences demonstrates his eagerness to grow as a musician.” 

Ihla Freshour, an upcoming freshman French horn player from Blennerhassett Middle School was awarded honorable mention.  Freshour is a very motivated musician, and her band director Alyssa Bumpus stated, “She is  one of the most motivated, kind, hardworking students I’ve ever had the privilege of teaching.”

Three additional finalists auditioned for the scholarship include: Lauren Deem (violin) from Williamstown Middle/High School; Jensyn Stump (tuba) from Williamstown Middle/High School; and Charles Ellison (percussion) from Williamstown Middle/High School. 

This is the eighth year of the award honoring Dr. James F. Dunphy (1930-2011), a lifelong devotee of and advocate for classical music who lived in Parkersburg for nearly 40 years.

The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is West Virginia’s premier performing arts organization, presenting classical and pops concerts annually throughout the Mountain State. Currently in its 85th season, the WVSO is a proud member of the community and enriches the region by providing affordable, high-quality concerts, collaborations with West Virginia arts organizations and a nationally award-winning education program.

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