The SPHS Orchestra is a select group of more than 80 musicians whose performances saturate the air with Falcon Pride.

The Severna Park High School Orchestra program, under the direction of R. Thomas Powell, is one of the preeminent training grounds for young musicians in Anne Arundel County. The orchestra is made up of young people attending Severna Park High School, freshmen through seniors, with diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, excellent musical ability, and good academic records. Graduates of the program have been admitted to study music at top schools throughout the country, including The United States Naval Academy, Cornell, Harvard, Princeton, University of Maryland, Northeastern University,University of Delaware, and the University of Michigan, The Ohio State, Penn State, Catholic University, Weber and Holy Cross.

The program has grown from 1968, when Mr. Powell joined the Severna Park High School faculty, to 85+ students now playing in the Symphony Orchestra and Concert Orchestra. Smaller chamber groups form and play for special events. The orchestra performs in many concerts in the Marland area throughout the school year. Parents are always welcomed and encouraged to help the orchestra concerts and festival trips. Come along and hear excellent music.

Mission Statement | Tours and Exchanges | Honors and Awards

Severna Park High School Band and Orchestra Boosters (SPHS BOB) is a nonprofit organization that supports the program with financial and logistical help - including maintaining this web site. BOB consists of a volunteer group of parents, faculty, and community volunteers designed to support the Severna Park high School Orchestra in its fundraising activities. Additionally, BOB provides general assistance such as chaperones for festivals, hospitality, and design and printing services for concert programs.

The SPHS BOB holds several fundraisers each year in order to pay for music, maintenance of school instruments, trips, and other expenses. Please show your support and attend as many evens as you are able to. We need volunteer help for many of these fundraisers; please visit the volunteering page if you'd like to help out.

If you'd like to learn more about the SPHS Orchestra, if you would like to join the Orchestra, or request specific information, please contact our Booster President, Mr. Yarnellat president@sphsmusic.org.