West Virginia Symphony Orchestra Announces
Wirt County H.S. Student Named as Dr. James F. Dunphy Memorial Scholar

CHARLESTON, W.VA. – The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce the 2023 winner of the Dr. James F. Dunphy Memorial Scholarship, Seth Pack, sophomore at Wirt County High School.

Pack 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 the WVSO’s Music Director.

Pack, son of Johnathan and Kalena Pack, plays saxophone in the Wirt County High School band program and is interested in exploring a career in music performance. In ten years, he sees himself performing and traveling the country for music opportunities. “Music is my greatest passion, and I intend to pursue it in the future,” Pack said.

Pack began playing the alto saxophone in fifth grade. In addition to alto saxophone, he also plays tenor saxophone and piano and desires to be capable of playing a wide variety of instruments. Pack is a member of the Wirt County High School Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band and has marched for three years in the Wirt County Marching Band.

Mrs. Sarah French, band director at Wirt County High School, described Pack as a joy to work with because of his positive attitude and eagerness to succeed. His talents in collaboration and accountability have naturally allowed him to stand out as a leader valued by both Mrs. French and his peers. Pack is “dedicated to do well in all things and takes it upon himself to learn things aside from band repertoire to improve his skills,” French said.

“We are delighted that Seth will be the 6^th recipient of the annual Dr. James F. Dunphy Memorial Scholarship and the first from Wirt County High School. We know that Seth has the talent, curiosity, and work ethic to make great use of the Scholarship. We wish him much success during his Scholarship year and in his future as a musician,” said the Dunphy Family.

Three additional finalists who auditioned for the scholarship include: Jolie Floding (alto saxophone) and Sara Jung (clarinet) from Williamstown High School; and McKenna Ryder (flute) from Ripley High School.

This is the sixth 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, and chamber-music concerts annually throughout the Mountain State. Currently completing its 84th 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.