Allison West has been a lover of music since she first picked up the clarinet in 5th grade and by 8th grade, she knew that she wanted to be a teacher and conductor. She graduated from Augustana University in 2017 with a degree in music education. She went on to teach K-12 music at Lewiston Consolidated in Lewiston, Nebraska before moving to Omaha to get her masters in music education from UNO and to teach middle school band for Music in Catholic Schools. In 2021, Allison became the band director at Skutt Catholic High School in Omaha where she directs the concert band, marching band, jazz band, pep band, and percussion ensemble. Allison played clarinet with the CBSO for three years before becoming the conductor and she likes to perform in pit ensembles whenever the opportunity arises. In her free time, she loves spending time with her two dogs and rabbit, crocheting, and practicing the bagpipes.

Dr. Allred is a classically trained and professional cellist teaching and performing in the Omaha metro area. Her cello studio is located at Clover24. This is her second year performing violin on stage. She has a bachelor's degree in music performance and a master’s degree in music performance both from UNO. Dr. Allred received her doctoral degree from National University in La Jolla, CA, in philosophy of education. She also is an 18-year veteran high school English teacher at Omaha South High School with Omaha Public Schools. She also holds a K-12 Gifted and Talented endorsement from the University of Iowa, as well as a 7-12 Language Arts endorsement, and a K-12 Reading Specialist master’s degree from UNO. Dr. Allred has performed cello as a sub for the Omaha Symphony, as well as performed cello at the Omaha Community Playhouse, The Rose, Bellevue Little Theater, Chanticleer Theater, Orchestra Omaha, Kanesville Orchestra, Metropolitan String Quartet, and at multiple weddings, social functions, and events as an independent and contracted musician.

Emma has lived in Council Bluffs most of her life. She attends IWCC part-time. Emma plays the piano & organ as well as the violin. She has been a member of the CBSO for close to six years.

Owen is in 8th grade at St. Albert. He enjoys playing sports and is a saxophone player in the middle school band. His parents are both teachers, and he has an older brother, Oliver. Owen played five years of String Sprouts, starting at age 4. He is a current violin student of Kirsten Meyer Zaryky at the St. Paul’s Music Conservatory and is on the school drum line.

Betsy’s musical journey as a violist started in the 80s. She played with OAYO & was part of the OAYO Carnegie Hall performance. In the early 90’s she played in the University of Iowa chamber orchestra. After a break to focus on her career, she returned to music in 2019 and found the Council Bluffs community orchestra. Since 2019, she has consistently played at PACE, volunteered with Creighton's orchestra, and participated in the pit orchestras for Papillion-La Vista Community Theater's 2023 Seussical the Musical & Skutt High School’s 2024 Sound of Music.

Elizabeth Henry is an elementary teacher with nine years of experience at Heartland Christian School, where she has nurtured a passion for education and fostered a love for learning in her students. With a deep appreciation for music, she often incorporates it into her teaching, enriching the classroom experience. Actively involved in her church community, Elizabeth dedicates her time to service and support, while cherishing moments spent with family and friends, which are integral to her life and values. Elizabeth is an accomplished violist with 34 years of experience, having played in special youth orchestras and participated in solo competitions throughout her musical journey. In addition to her performances, she has dedicated time to teaching violin and viola to children, sharing her passion for music and fostering a new generation of musicians.

Ella started playing viola at the age of 10. After High School, she played off and on until 2021. Ella was reintroduced to music, where she joined the CB Symphony Orchestra, and the rest is history!

Husband, Father, Nerd, Cellist. By night, he is a Transportation Security Officer, protecting our nation's transportation systems. In the light, he has a wonderful life with his wife Andrea, his rather strange (in a good way) set of friends and family. Technology is his friend, as he enjoys all aspects of technology and science. The cello picked him in the 4th grade, it let go of him after high school, but he sold a motorcycle and bought a cello, started a chamber group at church, then crashed the first rehearsal for the CB Symphony Orchestra, over 9 years ago. After doing rehearsals and performances on sidewalks, meeting spaces, and church basements, he helped KSO affiliate with PACE, and their future was assured. He is eternally grateful to have the Hoff as their musical home.

Allison has been playing the cello for 25 years. She is currently in her 14th year as an orchestra teacher in Omaha. She received her Bachelor of Music Education from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, IA, and her Master's in Music Education from UNO. She enjoys spending time with friends and family and being a mom to Calvin.

Allison has performed in many ensembles throughout her career in Colorado, Nebraska, and Iowa. She plays for weddings and special events, has played with Orchestra Omaha, and has played for the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. She teaches private lessons and works for Omaha Area Youth Orchestras in addition to her day job as a middle school orchestra teacher.

Dr. Sullivan, originally from Wisconsin, now resides in Omaha, where he works as a physician. His musical journey began at age 11, with the guitar being his first instrument of choice. Combining his passion for music, guitar, and singing, he performed at various venues, even earning the title of US College Entertainer of the Year—well, a long time ago. After marrying, having four children, and completing medical school and residency, he picked up his guitar again in the early 2000s. His talent was recognized when he was named the Nebraska Country Music Foundation Male Vocalist and Gospel Artist of the Year for two consecutive years.

Driven by his long-time admiration for the cello, he began learning it five years ago. His cello journey has involved lessons from teachers at the University of Louisville and Omaha, NE. Now, as a novice cellist, Dr. Sullivan is thrilled to play with the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), where he aims to improve his skills, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and contribute to the orchestra's excellent and challenging repertoire.

Pat is originally from Wisconsin. She started in band on clarinet in eighth grade and also played baritone sax in high school dance band. She played B-flat clarinet and alto clarinet with University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh marching and concert bands. Upon graduation, she taught third grade, but took other positions when she moved to Iowa; including Transportation Consultant, Administrative Assistant/ Bookkeeper with Kirby Vacuum Distributorship, Claims Examiner/Internal Auditor for Mutual of Omaha, Validator for West Asset Management and currently a senior billing associate with Nebraska Medicine. She has four children and eight grandchildren( all geniuses of course).

After moving to Council Bluffs, Pat began playing with the Iowa Western Community band and later joined Nebraska Wind Symphony in Omaha, Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra, and Nebraska Medicine Orchestra. She was part of a clarinet group, Quartet of Five, that played various venues in Council Bluffs and Omaha area. For many years she played clarinet with Holy Family Catholic Church choir until that Parish was closed.

Ronald is from northwest Iowa. He has played with the Albert City community band, Storm Lake municipal band, Pocohontas Community band, Karl L King band (Fort Dodge municipal band), and Storm Lake Methodist church praise band leader.

Much of Ashley's free time is spent pampering her cats, Moonlight, Simba, Noel, and Domino. Besides her cats, she enjoys spending time with her family, and doing a variety of outdoor activities. In addition, she loves decorating the house and doing lots of baking during the holidays. Another huge passion of hers is drawing and sewing. She love having quiet music playing, while she sits with a cat on her lap, creating art.

Music has been a passion of Ashley's for the last 17 years. She started her musical journey by playing the clarinet for elementary school band. Over the years, she discovered her passion for music and has taught herself to play the flute and saxophone as well. While in high school, she began instrumental studies with Carmelo Galante, of the Omaha Symphony. A few years later, she began studying flute with Maria Harding, of the Omaha Symphony. While in high school, Ashley participated in the Abraham Lincoln High School symphonic band, marching band, orchestra, jazz/pep band, and small chamber ensembles. She had the honor and privilege of being a member and participating in a number of different honor bands, which include, SWIBA honor band (6 years), Iowa All-State Honor Band (2 years), UNL Winter Winds, Iowa Western Honor Band and Concordia University Honor Band. She competed in District Solo Festival for 6 years and received Division 1 ratings, along with Best of Center awards. She also was a member of the Omaha Area Youth Orchestra for three years. She has Continued to perform at different musical venues, such as playing at her church, providing musical entertainment during the holidays at Lauritzen Gardens and other private events. Ashley has been blessed to be afforded the opportunity to work with other professional musicians in orchestra pits for the productions of “Cinderella”, “Esther”, and “Princess Diana”. She has performed with Christi Zuniga, pianist of the Omaha Symphony and harpist, Kim Meyer, during holiday recitals.

Jennifer lives in Lincoln , NE, and works for Instinct Pet Food as the Director of Food Safety and Quality. She started playing flute when she was eleven. While in high school, she studied at the Central Pennsylvania Music Academy under Diane Gold-Toulson. She participated in PMEA District and Regional bands for 3 years and performed in the PA All State Band as a first flute. She also, performed with the All State Lions Band at the National Lions Club convention held in Phoenix, AZ. While in college, she participated in the Pennsylvania State University Symphonic Band for two years and the Blue Band for one year. She has performed for several years as a member of the Heartland Community Flute Choir and now performs with Coro Di Flauti based out of Lincoln, NE. Jennifer is so blessed to have played with so many wonderful musicians through the years.

Cheryl is a Council Bluffs native who developed a love of music at just 9 years old through piano lessons. A year later, she started learning to play the flute in school. She was given a piccolo by her parents at 15 years old, which fueled her passion for performance. She made numerous honor bands throughout high school, including the Cotton Bowl Honor Marching Band and the Iowa All-State Band on Piccolo. Cheryl attended the University of Iowa where she played in the Hawkeye Marching Band for 1 year before joining the Newman Center Orchestra for 3 years. She continued to perform at weddings and other various events before finding this orchestra in 2016. She was invited to play with the Omaha Symphony for 2 performances in 2017 & 2018. Cheryl enjoys performing in a variety of ensembles, including a flute duo, mixed quartets, a wind ensemble, and a full orchestra. Though music is her biggest hobby, she also enjoys hiking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, biking, tennis, yoga, puzzles, crocheting, gardening, and spending time with her family.

Melissa moved to Omaha from Kentucky three years ago. She works as a Library Specialist at the Omaha Public Library and will be graduating in May with her Library Science degree from UNO. She started playing flute in middle school, 30 something years ago, but switched to tenor sax the next year. She played through high school in concert band, jazz band, and pep band. After High School, Melissa didn’t play much, however, her love for music has continued since recently joining the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra.

Paul escaped from Venice, California in April of 2017. He has a technical background in software 7. He is also apart of the Intergeneration Orchestra, Iowa Western band, PAC Band, and UNO Jazz, He played in Santa Monica College jazz for 50 years, the Topanga Symphony, and Santa Monica Emeritus band for 30 years.

Alan is a University of Nebraska – Lincoln graduate with a degree in music education, and through the years he has played with many groups and musical settings including the Nebraska Cornhusker Marching Band, wind concert band ensembles, jazz big bands, dance bands, rock cover band, brass ensembles, musical pit orchestras, and pop orchestra work. In addition to playing with the Council Bluffs Symphony during the year, Alan is also currently performing with several other metro area music ensembles including the Nebraska Wind Symphony and the Papillion Area Concert band.

Delores is a retired teacher and an artist as well as a musician and currently resides in Missouri Valley. She has 5 children, 11 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

She started with violin, as a child. She grew up and so did her violin, becoming a string bass. She played String bass in High school and college. She played in the St. Joseph Symphony while in college. After raising her family, Delores purchased a bass from the local high school. She began playing in the IWCC band and Blair Area Community Band and Jazz band, Then joined CBSO when it began. She also plays organ and piano.

Lauren is a Council Bluffs resident, local wildlife educator, and recreational trombonist. She has participated in CBSO for three years. She enjoys hiking in the loess hills, playing music with her fellow community members, and connecting humans to our wildlife neighbors and natural resources.

Eddie Russo, a native of Massachusetts, started his career in upstate New York with the cover band Soul Incorporated. After a short time in the U.S. Army playing trombone with military bands, he joined Blue Magic in California, a funk sounding show band signed to Liberty Records and MCA Publishers. He’s toured nationally with the Buddy Miles Band, D.D. Smith and Taxi, the Fabulous Flippers (‘Harlem Shuffle’), and the regrouped Spiral Starecase (‘I Love You More Today Than Yesterday’). Eddie has also played in several ballroom big bands, including the Jan Garber Orchestra out of Chicago. Additionally, he formed his own swing band performing in casinos, hotels, and cruise lines. His studio accomplishments includes five albums, “A Mandolin Christmas”, “Kickin’ Back with Eddie – The Classic Sounds of Swing”, “La Storia II - Italian Mandolin”, "Eddie Russo Song Collection 2013 (Originals)" and "La Festa di Danza".

As a second-generation chiropractor originally from Northern Kentucky, Dr Payne currently serves as the Executive Director of the Nebraska Chiropractic Physicians Association in Omaha, NE.

Dr. Payne's musical journey, rooted in family tradition, began with the tuba in 6th grade. His passion for music flourished through his high school wind ensemble and numerous honor bands, culminating in his role as the principal tubist with the Northern Kentucky University Symphonic Winds. Recently, joining the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra has offered him new opportunities to engage with the musical arts.

Though her degree and occupation were not in music, music has surrounded Veva since childhood. From her mother’s lullabies through strong music programs at school and church to the desire to be more than a listener, Veva found her soul in performance. High School and College Bands along with the St. Joseph, MO Symphony are Ancient History, but they honed the ability she has today.

More recently, Veva has played in the Iowa Western Community Band since 2010, this Orchestra since 2021, “Into the Woods” pit orchestra, and three wind ensembles. Though the list is not long, every rehearsal and performance has improved her ability, confidence, and the love of being a part of the performance.

Paula is a retired First Deputy Auditor in Pottawattamie County. She has played in many, various musical groups in this area since 1978.

Becky grew up in a musical family, with both parents playing instruments and singing. She picked up the trumpet (her dad's instrument) in 6th grade and hasn't put it down. She joined CBSO a couple years ago through Karen, whom she works with at AAA. In addition to music, Becky loves to read and write something small on occasion.

Ron holds music degrees from Univ of Southern Miss and University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Instructor/Trainer Armed Forces School of Music, US Air Force Academy, US Air Force Basic Training, Asst Director East MS Community College. Touring Musician for US Army & Air Force Bands. US Anthem performer for sporting events to include College World Series. Conductor for performances with the Air Force Academy, San Diego St. University, University of Michigan, University of Nevada-Reno. National Chamber Music Winner with Music Teachers National Association.

Originally from Northern Kentucky, Jackson is a Skutt Catholic High School junior. Music plays a significant role in his life, shaping his experiences and pursuits beyond the classroom. Starting his musical journey with the electric bass in 4th grade, Jackson participates in his school's jazz band, concert band, show choir band, and marching band.

Recently, he expanded his repertoire by adding the tuba, showcasing his commitment to exploring different facets of music. Performing with the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra furthers his musical development and experience.

Walter is a retired Civil Servant. Other than playing for CBSO, he has performed for various local groups.

Jan Powers is a retired professor and school counselor. She was previously a band director for 14 years and happy to return to her lifelong love of music by performing in the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra. She formerly performed on trumpet with the Fort Dodge Symphony and Karl King Band.  She has 3 married children and 9 grandchildren who all play wind instruments.

Karen has played violin for 30 years and is classically trained. She studied music performance at the University of Nebraska Omaha for 5 years and earned her bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship. While attending UNO and studying music, she was part of the Heartland Philharmonic Orchestra. She has been a private music teacher for 15 years. She has participated in other musical endeavors, including playing handbells at the Lutheran Church of the Master and playing in a musical at Skutt Catholic High School.

 is a 22 year old violin player, who has been practicing for the last 13 years. She has been a lifelong lover of classical music, and participated briefly as concert master of the Cornell College orchestra, and also of OAYO and high school groups before that. Currently working as a pharmacy technician, she is excited to be playing with the CBSO after a few year break from ensembles.

Ruth grew up in Burlington, Iowa, and has a son, Seth. In addition to being a musician, she has experience as a mental health therapist, floral designer, and sample lady at Sam’s Club.

Ruth was a violinist with Southeast Iowa Symphony for 13 years, principal 2nd violinist with Cherokee Symphony Orchestra for 25 years, and currently a violinist in the second violin section of Sioux City Symphony Orchestra (in her 26th year).

Kiara Young-Connelly is a violist, visual artist, and full-time Senior Graphic Designer hailing from the heartland of Omaha, Nebraska.

Her journey into the world of music began in the third grade, where she discovered her love for the viola. Throughout high school and college, Kiara remained deeply involved in orchestras, participating in All-city, All-state, quartets, and small ensembles. After a hiatus from playing, Kiara's passion for music led her to seek out the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra in 2023. Since then, Kiara has been delighted to reunite with her love for viola and looks forward to continuing her musical journey with the orchestra and exploring new artistic endeavors within the community.

Leslie has grown up in and around Council Bluffs and is proud to call CB home. She is a graduate of the University of Iowa and is an avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan. No matter what the sport. She is also active in a dog rescue and is on the board for New Visions Homeless Services. She says that working in Yellowstone for 8 years was her life's great adventure, but her greatest achievement is her son William (even though he's a Cyclone fan).

Leslie started playing saxophone in 5th grade and switched to the oboe in 9th grade. After playing for 3 years, she decided to focus on vocal music and even considered a degree in vocal music. But life took a different course and she didn't do anything musical for nearly 25 years. After reconnecting with her inner musician, she started playing the oboe with the Glenwood Community Band, then the Council Bluffs Iowa Western Community Band. Following the pandemic, Leslie decided to try orchestral music and has been with the Council Bluffs Symphony since 2022.

Laura Baller has been an interpreter for the deaf for 40 years. She has been playing the Bass Clarinet since Jr high school. She has played in several different groups through the years and has enjoyed playing music and being able to share music with others.

Laura has spent six years with the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra and one season with the Wind Ensemble.

Originally from Northern Kentucky and now a sophomore at the University of Nebraska Omaha, Evan is a private pilot working toward an aviation career.

Evan’s musical journey began in 5th grade, developing through middle and high school experiences. Playing with the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra continues to refine his musical talents and enrich his artistic journey.

Kathi Angeroth enjoys playing in the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra when she's not out playing with professional symphony orchestras. Her current and past symphony orchestras include Omaha, Des Moines, Lincoln, Waterloo-Cedar Falls, and Sioux City. She has taught hundreds of students from preschool to several colleges. She lives outside Council Bluffs with her husband Rod.

Omaha born and raised, Maggie is a freshman at Creighton University whose passion for music started with various choirs in third grade. Her junior year of high school she made the jump to band and fell in love with mallet percussion. Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra has been the best way to keep band in her life post high school graduation.