West Virginia Symphony Orchestra Announces Saint Marys H.S. Student as Dr. James F. Dunphy Memorial Schola

CHARLESTON, W.VA. (6/17/21) – The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce the 2021 winner of the Dr. James F. Dunphy Memorial Scholarship.

Kyle Jones, 2021 Dr. James F. Dunphy Memorial Scholarship Winner

Kyle Jones, a rising junior at Saint Marys High School, successfully auditioned and interviewed for the scholarship, which offers private music lessons with a WVSO musician, the opportunity to attend WVSO rehearsals, and personal interaction with Music Director Lawrence Loh.

Jones plays French horn in the St. Marys High School band program and for the Saint Marys Community Concert Band. In 2021, he successfully auditioned for both the WV All-State Band and All-State Choir. At school, Jones participates on the golf team and is a member of the National Honor Society. Jones is also involved in Pleasants County 4-H and at Saint Marys United Methodist Church.   

Of his selection, Jones said, “I am extremely honored to be the recipient of the Dr. James F. Dunphy Memorial Scholarship. I look forward to continuing a legacy of classical music appreciation and performance.”

The selection committee listened to recorded auditions submitted by the finalists before Zoom interviews, which took place on Saturday, June 12. The finalists included four students from the Wood County area--Christian Deem (tuba) and Brodi Wilson (trumpet) from Parkersburg High School; Caleb Rowan (tuba) from Parkersburg South High School; and Adam Hatcher (French horn) from Williamstown High School.

The Dunphy family summed up this year’s selection: “We recognized in Kyle a great musical potential combined with dedication, ambition, and an uncommon maturity. We congratulate him on his selection for the Scholarship and are eager to see him attain great success in his future.”

This is the fourth 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 WVSO is West Virginia’s premier performing arts organization, presenting classical, pops, family and chamber-music concerts annually throughout the Mountain State. Currently entering its 83rd 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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