Scott Weiss
Scott Weiss is the Sarah Bolick Smith Distinguished Professor of Music and director of orchestras. He conducts the USC Symphony Orchestra and teaches graduate conducting.
Led by conductor Scott Weiss, the University of South Carolina Symphony is the premier orchestra at USC and performs six concerts per year in the Koger Center for the Arts. Placement in the ensemble is through blind auditions in August, and the ensemble rehearses 5 hours per week.
You don't have to be a music major to be a part of the USC Campus Orchestra. With a less intense rehearsal and performance schedule, ensemble members can experience a rewarding artistic outlet.
USC Symphony Orchestra auditions
Orchestra Directors
Julie Russell
Julie Russell conducts the Campus Orchestra. Additionally, she currently serves as Orchestra Director at Blythewood High School, Region Orchestra Chair of SCMEA, and President of SC ASTA. She was recognized as Teacher of the Year, District Finalist, and one of Yamaha’s 40 Under 40 for 2024–2025.
Orchestra Events
Luise E. Peake Colloquium: An Evening with Kim Se Hwang
Monday, Feb. 2, 2026
Location: See Description for Event Location.
Cost: FREE - Reserve a spot https://www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-with-kim-se-hwang-musician-global-ceo-of-beat-interactive-tickets-1980471166572?aff=oddtdtcreator
Luise E. Peake Colloquium: Up Close & Personal: Kim Se Hwang
Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026
Location: See Description for Event Location.
Cost: FREE
Luise E. Peake Colloquium: Thomas Garcia
Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026
Location: See Description for Event Location.
Cost: FREE