ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – David Stewart Wiley, music director and conductor of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra, has announced plans to step down from his role on July 1, 2028, after 30 years leading the organization.
Wiley, now 60, will be only the fourth music director in the RSO’s 73-year history — and the longest-serving in that role.
“And to be only the fourth music director in the 73-year history is an incredible thing,” Wiley said. “And the next music director, she or he will take it in a new direction. And that’s great.”
Early life and musical roots
Wiley’s connection to music began in childhood…